1.1 Estimating gradients of curves
Applet explorations
1) Consider the steepness of the curve at each of the labelled points. Is it positive/negative, large/small? Are any gradients easier to estimate than others?
2) You could plot a tangent line to better visualise the gradients. Drag the point across the curve to change where the tangent touches the curve.
3) Check your answers and refresh the page to change the graph when you are happy with your estimates. What has all this got to do with calculus?
Summarise any key points at the bottom of the page.
Applet conclusions
Note any key points from this activity. How can this applet be used to develop our understanding of calculus?