AP Test Prep

Calculus AB/BC - Using the First Derivative Test to Determine Relative Local Extrema

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

Critically apply intervals of increasing and decreasing. Pupils watch a video to see how finding a critical point and finding intervals of increasing and decreasing work together to identify local extrema. Scholars use the first derivative test to determine whether a critical point is either a maximum or minimum. They then use the included problems to practice their skills.

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Additional Tags
Instructional Ideas
  • Provide a couple more examples that the derivative does not change sign at a critical point
Classroom Considerations
  • Assumes individuals can find derivatives including using the chain rule
  • Fourth segment in a 14-part Analytical Applications unit
  • This video is hosted on YouTube
Pros
  • Shows the steps in taking derivatives, but does it quickly as this is a previously learned skill
  • Contains answer keys
Cons
  • None