The aim of this study was to identify and classify the student's concept image and its influence on the reasoning of the problem-solving of the derivative. The research used a qualitative description approach and used eight research subjects. From the answers collected upon the given problems, we obtained several variations of students' concept…

Polynomials with rational roots and extrema may be difficult to create. Although techniques for solving cubic polynomials exist, students struggle with solutions that are in a complicated format. Presented in this article is a way instructors may wish to introduce the topics of roots and critical numbers of polynomial functions in calculus. In a…

In the context of an analytical geometry, this study considers the mathematical understanding and activity of seven students analyzed simultaneously through two knowledge frameworks: (1) the Van Hiele levels (Van Hiele, 1986, 1999) and register and domain knowledge (Hibert, 1988); and (2) three action frameworks: the SOLO taxonomy (Biggs, 1999;…

This article examines the question of finding the best quadratic function to approximate a given function on an interval. The prototypical function considered is f(x) = e[superscript x]. Two approaches are considered, one based on Taylor polynomial approximations at various points in the interval under consideration, the other based on the fact…

An overview is given of three conceptual lessons that can be incorporated into any first-semester calculus class. These lessons were developed to help promote calculus students' ability to think conceptually, in particular with regard to the role that infinity plays in the subject. A theoretical basis for the value of these lessons is provided,…

Investigates how animation is used to improve students' comprehension of the limit concept in an experimental course in which the main topics are approximation and interpolation by Taylor polynomials. Uses Mathematica software to generate the dynamic graphics, visualize the process of convergence, and give meaning to the definitions. Analyzes…

Summing powers of integers is presented as an example of finite differences and antidifferences in discrete mathematics. The interrelation between these concepts and their analogues in differential calculus, the derivative and integral, is illustrated and can form the groundwork for students' understanding of differential and integral calculus.…