This site shows the graph of a function and its tangent line and secant line at a point. The user can move a slider to change the point(s) and generate both the tangent and secant lines. The slopes of both lines are shown.
Type of Material:
Simulation
Recommended Uses:
This site can be used for an in-class demonstration, self-study, or individual student practice.
Technical Requirements:
Any browser.
Identify Major Learning Goals:
Developing an understanding and presenting visualization of the Tangent Line problem which is helpful in many class activities.
Target Student Population:
Students in a Calculus I course.
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
First semester of Calculus and Pre-Calculus.
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
The Tangent Line problem is one of the fundamental problems in Calculus that can be used to illustrate such fundamental concepts as definition of a limit of a function or definition of derivative. This site allows the user to visually explore the very nature of the Tangent Line problem that is typically discussed in the beginning of the first semester of Calculus. Given a preset graph of function, the user has the control (via a sliders) with the location of the point of tangency as well as the location of the second point to generate a secant line that approximates the tangent line.
Concerns:
A set of exploration questions would be helpful in making it more interactive for students.
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
The site can be used as a part of in-class demonstration or as a part of homework, or perhaps a self-guided activity.
Concerns:
None
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
The tool is very simple and intuitive, and everybody can start using it right away.
Concerns:
None
Creative Commons:
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