This lesson begins by introducing the derivative at a point. Then students learn to work with the derivative function. The graph of the derivative is briefly introduced--this will be explored further in a future lesson. Students also get practice with finding the equation of a tangent line and using alternate notation for the derivative.

This lesson is appropriate for both AP Calculus AB and BC.

Detailed answer keys are included.

The topics covered include:

-The Derivative at a Point

-Alternate Definition of the Derivative

-Finding the Equation of the Tangent Line

-Practice with Finding the Tangent Line

-The Derivative as a Rate of Change

-The Derivative as a Function

-Graphing the Derivative Function

-Other Notations

In this product, you will find the following:

-Powerpoint Presentation (28 slides)

-Guided Notes (4 pages, a "filled in" copy is also included)

-Do Now Slips (4 slips on one page, answers included)

-Exit Ticket Slips (4 slips on one page, answers included)

-Homework Assignment (2 pages, a detailed answer key is included)

This lesson is part of a larger unit on Derivatives. The complete unit includes the following:

-Rates of Change

-The Derivative Function

-Derivatives of Polynomials

-Graphing the Derivative

-Higher Derivatives

-Differentiability