Friday, October 28, 2011

Implicit Differentiation.....Huh?



In class on Thursday, Mr. Bearss introduced a new concept in Calculus called Implicit Differentiation. Which is a fancy way of saying, "Find the derivative of y in respects to x." Now this is a rather confusing topic if I say so, so I figured why not find some practice problems for myself and everyone else. Here are just a few problems to practice with, please post your answers below......
1)x2 + y2 = 25
2) x3 + y3 = 4
3) y = x2 y3 + x3 y2
4) x2 + (y-x)3 = 9
And lastly....
5) (x-y3)/(y+x2)=x+2

Sunday, October 23, 2011

A Calculus Controversy

Image courtesy of eduCommons

Many moons ago Isaac Newton and Gottfried Leibniz both claimed to have invented calculus. The feud began small, but then erupted into something much more. The math world became divided and sides were chosen. Do some research and see exactly how this quarrel developed.

Monday, October 10, 2011

Questions?


Photo by: JayMay

There have been many topics introduced in class, are there any questions or comments about derivatives, limits, or second derivatives? Also try and find an occupation that uses some or all of these tools!

Friday, September 30, 2011

Welcome to Calculus!

Photo by Derek Bruff

As a fellow student taking Calculus this year, I thought it would be a smart idea to see what everyone else thinks of the class. Whether or not they're enjoying it, and if they look forward to the year. I understand for many it's their most difficult class, but putting that aside, what do you think of the class? Are you anticipating a good year? What do you look forward to learning in Calculus? Do you think Mr. Bearss is an awesome teacher?.....Be careful how you answer that last question!

But on a serious note, what are you looking for from this class? Are you planning on a career that involves a higher level math? Give us some of your thoughts, hopes, and concerns about Calculus.