Real-World Calculus Lesson Plans

Eleventh graders take an advance placement test on the computer. In this calculus lesson plan, 11th graders take a practice AP exam using Wofram/Alpha to check for correct answers. This assignment is geared towards 12th grade advanced placement students.

Twelfth graders investigate an application of related rates.  In this calculus lesson, 12th graders are presented with a real world application of derivatives.  The activity emphasizes how to set up the problem and students are guided through a series of questions which requires them to analyze the problem before attempting a solution. 

Students solve and graph exponential functions. In this algebra lesson plan, students identify function notations and discuss the different properties of exponential functions. They relate linear functions to the real world.

Young scholars examine where trigonometry exists outside the classroom. In this trigonometry instructional activity, students create trigonometric functions to match the data provided and to solve word problems relating to the real world.

Students read an article on how calculus is used in the real world. In this calculus lesson, students draw a correlation between the Battle of Trafalgar and calculus. The purpose of this article is the show everyday uses for calculus in the real world.

Identify the limits. Using geometry, learners will define the limit and fundamental theorem of calculus. They will also relate limit and derivatives to the real world.

Twelfth graders investigate maximizing volume.  In this calculus lesson, 12th graders explore the problem in which they seek to maximize the volume of a cone.  Students solve the problem symbolically, graphically, and through the use of integration or differentiation and are evaluated accordingly. 

Students investigate inverse functions. In this calculus lesson, students use the horizontal line test to determine if a functions inverse is a function. They define functions given a graph or an equation.

Students find the derivatives of equation. For this calculus lesson, students identify the minimum and maximum of an equation as they model optimization. They relate and apply derivatives to the real world.

Eighth graders compare objects to large numbers. In this algebra lesson, 8th graders compare large numbers to daily objects. Relate large numbers to the real world by discussing the Holocaust and the number of people who lost their lives.