Exploring parametric representation with the TI-84 Plus CE graphing calculator
نویسندگان
چکیده
We introduce parametric equations in the first unit taught in our Pre-Calculus curriculum, immediately after teaching the definition of a function. The use of parametric equations greatly enhances the understanding of domain and range. We start with the students doing explorations on domain and range, using prescribed values for the parameter t. We use this activity not only to re-enforce the concepts of domain and range but we also use the calculator’s t-step to help re-enforce students’ understanding of the difference between continuous and discrete functions. It is also a great reintroduction to transformations.
منابع مشابه
A LIMIT–FREE APPROACH TO DERIVATIVES: Report on a Classroom Project
Led by the idea that “. . . using a graphing calculator to zoom in functions is one of the best ways of seeing local linearity” (Hughes-Hallet, Gleason et al. 1994), we discuss here the role of new technology in teaching and understanding mathematics and present a complete “route to derivatives”, which is particularly suitable for undergraduate teaching. Starting with a formal definition of the...
متن کاملSimulating Experiments with the Graphic Calculator Ti83plus
Simulating quickly a large number of repetitions of an experiment is a powerful tool in statistics. Simulations can be performed and explored individually by students in the classroom with graphics calculators like the TI83(Plus). Applications are estimating the probability of an event, predicting the profit in a game of chance, approximating the probability distribution of a random variable, d...
متن کاملExploring the Myths
Perhaps the most obvious myth is that graphics calculators are mainly useful for drawing graphs of functions and hence are not relevant to most mathematics curricula. An hour or two with a modern graphics calculator will quickly dispel this myth. For example, my book, More mathematics with a graphics calculator: Casio cfx-9850G, contains sixteen chapters, only four of which are primarily concer...
متن کاملTeaching and Learning Calculus in Secondary Schools with the TI-Nspire
Technology can help develop understanding of abstract mathematical concepts through visualisation and graphic representation. The teaching and learning of calculus can be challenging as it involves abstract and complex ideas. The purpose of this study was to investigate how students and teachers attempt to use TINspire, the latest graphing calculator from Texas Instruments, in teaching and lear...
متن کاملExploring the Co-Development of Mathematical and Technological Knowledge Among African American Students
This study examines African American students’ interactions with the graphing calculator as a tool to support their mathematical learning. Two participants, chosen through purposive sampling, were the focus of this study. The participants were presented with a task-based interview, and the strategies they employed in solving these tasks with the help of a graphing calculator were examined. The ...
متن کامل