Calculus Labs

Project Proposal:

We propose to create a set of twelve in-class laboratories that illustrate topics essential to the calculus sequence. Approximately half of these projects will involve the revising and extending of existing Maple worksheets. The other half will be created anew. In an attempt to be comprehensive, we will create four labs for each semester of the calculus sequence with some possible ideas listed below:

First Semester Calculus (Differential Calculus)

• A review of functions
• Limits
• The geometry of the derivative
• Optimization
• Applications of the derivative in biological modeling and thermodynamics
• The Mean Value Theorem

Second Semester Calculus (Integral Calculus)

• The Fundamental Theorem of Calculus
• Applications involving volumes
• Applications involving the arclength of a function
• Introducing Taylor Series
• Applications of Taylor Series

Third Semester Calculus (Multivariable Calculus)

• Contours and applications in the geological sciences
• Exploring continuity and differentiability of functions for two variables
• Applications involving volumes
• Gradients and applications in optimization or meteorology
• Visualizing a change of coordinates and the jacobian

With a collaborative effort, we will be able to produce a large collection of labs that meet the needs of a wide range of teaching and learning styles. All proposers have significant Maple experience, and each brings a different strength to the project.

Judy Holdener, holdener@kenyon.edu
Keith Howard, howardk@kenyon.edu
Zaven Karian, karian@denison.edu
Lewis Ludwig, ludwigl@denison.edu

Back to Current Projects