Handout
Other

Matheno: How to Solve Optimization Problems in Calculus

For Students 10th - 12th
Need to solve Optimization problems in Calculus? This blog illustrates the steps needed to solve them routinely for yourself.
Lesson Plan
Other

Stewart Resources Centre: Optimization Problems in Calculus [Pdf]

For Teachers 9th - 10th
This is a tenth grade calculus unit on optimization problems.
Unit Plan
University of California

University of California: Maximum/minimum Problems

For Students 10th - 12th
The following problems are maximum/minimum optimization problems. They illustrate one of the most important applications of the first derivative.
Interactive
Paul Dawkins

Paul's Online Notes: Optimization

For Students 10th - 12th
Optimizations problems with examples, solutions, and links to further explain methods to solve.
Activity
TeachEngineering

Teach Engineering: Solving Everyday Problems Using the Engineering Design Cycle

For Teachers 6th - 8th
Students are introduced to two real-life problems that can be solved by using the engineering design process. For the first one, they watch a slide presentation that shows how students use the engineering design process to build an...
Activity
Texas Instruments

Texas Instruments: Optimization

For Teachers 9th - 10th
This activity illustrates how the derivative is used to find a solution to an optimization problem.
Lesson Plan
Science Education Resource Center at Carleton College

Serc: Calzones vs. Mini Pizzas a Linear Programming Problem

For Teachers 9th - 10th
This module presents a linear programming problem. An example of the revenue-maximizing product mix for a pizza parlor is developed. This is an example of a more general mathematical optimization (maximization or minimization) problem....
Activity
Ministry of Education and Universities of the Region of Murcia (Spain)

Ministerio De Educacion Y Ciencia: Problemas De Optimizacion

For Students 9th - 10th
In Spanish. Apply your Calculus knowledge using interactive activities to solve optimization problems.
Activity
Paul Dawkins

Paul's Online Notes: Calculus I: Applications of Derivatives

For Students 9th - 10th
Learners examine applications of derivatives. Topics investigated are rates of change, the mean value theorem, optimization problems, critical points, linear approximations, and Newton?s method. Class notes, definitions, and examples...
Activity
Texas Instruments

Texas Instruments: Optimization

For Teachers 9th - 10th
This activity shows the student how to determine the optimal solution for maximum volume based on the box-with-no-top problem.
Activity
Other

High Step Sport Shoes: A Linear Programming Problem [Pdf]

For Students 9th - 10th
A simple example of a linear programming problem for students that helps them understand the basic ideas behind linear programming and how they can be applied to solving real world problems.
Activity
Stefan Warner and Steven R. Costenoble

Finite Mathematics & Applied Calculus: Applications of Maxima and Minima

For Students 9th - 10th
Students learn how to apply maxima and minima in real world problems. Topics include optimization problems, objective functions, and constraints. The tutorial explores the calculus concepts through notes and examples. A chapter quiz,...
Activity
Lawrence Hall of Science

The Math Page: An Approach to Calculus: Applications of Maximum and Minimum Values

For Students 9th - 10th
Here is a site that clearly and thoroughly explains how to solve applied max/min problems using the first derivative. There are example problems solved, problems for the student to attempt, and answers to the student problems. Point this...
Study Guide
Department of Defense

Do Dea: Optimization Examples

For Students 9th - 10th
Practice types of problems you will see on AP Calculus test that deal with optimization. Formulas and examples are provided.
Lesson Plan
University of Canterbury

University of Canterbury: Cs Unplugged: Minimal Spanning Trees

For Teachers 2nd - 8th
This puzzle shows students the decisions involved in linking a network between houses in a muddy city. It can lead on to a discussion of minimal spanning tree algorithms for optimizing networks.
Website
Other

Embrace the Future: Resilient Kids

For Students 3rd - 8th
Advice about strengthening your ability to bounce back from adversity. Learn key skills, such as problem solving, making friends, and positive thinking, that will help you stay happy, healthy, and productive.
Handout
Forum Romanum

Outlines of Roman History: Reforms of Tiberius and Gaius Gracchus

For Students 9th - 10th
This chapter in William Morey's 1901 text discusses the land reforms of the Gracchi brothers. Find out how well they worked and the problems they caused.
Activity
Texas Instruments

Texas Instruments: Differential Calculus

For Teachers 9th - 10th
In this activity, students learn to solve problems dealing with limits, derivatives, and optimization. They use various features of the TI-86 to study some important ideas covered in a differential calculus course.
Article
Other

Science Direct: New Lower Bounds for the Three Dimensional Finite Bin Packing

For Students 10th - 12th
This article analyzes the three-dimensional finite bin packing problem (3BP). The 3BP finds many practical applications as it is a simplified version of many real-world problems, e.g. container and pallet loading.
Article
Other

Roots of Action: How Kids Learn to Take Initiative and Overcome Challenges

For Teachers Pre-K - 1st
Learning to take initiative is a behavior that helps kids navigate their lives with courage and optimism. This article provides insights into how children learn to take initiative. Parents and teachers are key mentors in the process. A...
Unit Plan
Other

Avon Schools: Bin Packing Guided Practice

For Students 10th - 12th
Bin packing guided problems with solutions worked out on the examples.
Activity
TeachEngineering

Teach Engineering: Biomimicry: Echolocation in Robotics

For Teachers 6th - 8th
Students use ultrasonic sensors and LEGO MINDSTORMS NXT robots to emulate how bats use echolocation to detect obstacles. They measure the robot's reaction times as it senses objects at two distances and with different sensor threshold...
Activity
TeachEngineering

Teach Engineering: Magnetic Launcher

For Teachers 9th - 10th
Students explore electromagnetism and engineering concepts using optimization techniques to design an efficient magnetic launcher. Groups start by algebraically solving the equations of motion for the velocity at the time when a...
eBook
Other

Core Plus: Discrete Mathematics

For Students 10th - 12th Standards
The Contemporary Mathematics in Context series provides a common core of broadly useful mathematics for all students. The discrete mathematics strand develops student ability to model and solve problems involving enumeration, sequential...