Introducing Calculus with a Graphics Calculator

Abstract

Classroom use of a graphics calculator can allow students to explore important matehmatical ideas and to make connections between them. In this workshop, we will use Casio fx-9860G graphics calculators to explore some calculus ideas that are first encountered in the senior secondary school, including those of derivatives, integrals, limits, continuity, asymptotic behaviour and elementary differential equations. These explorations will be used to illustrate important principles about learning mathematical ideas with the assistance of technology. Previous experience with this particular calculator will not be assumed.