Use a suitable representation, state the rule, and keep every numerical or algebraic step equivalent. Finish with estimation, an inverse operation, or substitution as a check.
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AI: technology, modelling, statistics, interpretation of results
Use a suitable representation, state the rule, and keep every numerical or algebraic step equivalent. Finish with estimation, an inverse operation, or substitution as a check.
Mathematics
Worked examples
Follow the method step by step and check why every step is valid.
Worked rate-of-change example
For f(x) = x³ - 2x, find the derivative and the gradient at x = 6.
1Differentiate term by term: f'(x) = 3x² - 2.
2Substitute x = 6.
3Interpret the value as the tangent gradient.
f'(x) = 3x² - 2, f'(6) = 106
Reasoning example
Before calculating, explain the key idea from “AA: proof, exact algebra, analytical calculus, trigonometric identities” and which conditions must be checked.
1Define the idea in one clear sentence.
2Connect it to a representation, law, or formula.
3State a restriction, unit, or final check that makes the solution valid.
The answer should show not only which rule is used for “AA: proof, exact algebra, analytical calculus, trigonometric identities”, but also why it is valid here.
Route emphasis
Practice with answers
Eight graded tasks from core fluency to exam-style application. Work independently before opening a hint or answer.
Core fluency4 minutes
For f(x)=x²+8x, find f'(x).
Hint
Use the power rule term by term.
Answer guide
f'(x)=2x+8.
Core fluency5 minutes
Find the gradient of f(x)=x²+4x at x=2.
Hint
Differentiate, then substitute.
Answer guide
f'(2)=2·2+4=8.
Application6 minutes
Find ∫(7x+4)dx.
Hint
Increase the power by 1 and divide by the new power.
Answer guide
3.5x²+4x+C.
Application7 minutes
Evaluate ∫₀^6 3x dx.
Hint
Find an antiderivative and apply upper minus lower limit.
Answer guide
1.5·6² = 54.
Reasoning8 minutes
Find the stationary point of f(x)=x²-6x+6.
Hint
Set f'(x)=0, then find y.
Answer guide
x=3, y=-3=-3.
Reasoning9 minutes
If ds/dt=9t+5 and s(0)=14, find s(t).
Hint
Integrate and use the initial condition.
Answer guide
s(t)=4.5t²+5t+14.
Exam style10 minutes
Check whether F(x)=2.5x²+2x is an antiderivative of f(x)=5x+2.
Hint
Differentiate F.
Answer guide
F'(x)=5x+2=f(x), so yes.
Exam style12 minutes
A learner writes d(x³)/dx=3x. Correct it and explain the rule.
Hint
The power rule reduces the exponent by 1.
Answer guide
d(x³)/dx=3x².
Common mistakes
Applying a rule without checking domain or continuity.
Omitting the integration constant in an indefinite integral.
Giving a numerical result without graphical or physical interpretation.
Mastery check
✓I connect limit, derivative, and integral with a graph.
✓I apply rules with the correct conditions.
✓I interpret the result in context.
Route emphasis
Chapter homework
Six distinct assignments from core fluency to challenge, each with an estimated time, hint, and answer guide.
Core8 minutes
Homework 1: For f(x)=x²+4x, find f'(x).
Hint
Use the power rule term by term.
Answer guide
f'(x)=2x+4.
Core10 minutes
Homework 2: Find the gradient of f(x)=x²+7x at x=3.
Hint
Differentiate, then substitute.
Answer guide
f'(3)=2·3+7=13.
Stretch12 minutes
Homework 3: Find ∫(3x+5)dx.
Hint
Increase the power by 1 and divide by the new power.
Answer guide
1.5x²+5x+C.
Stretch15 minutes
Homework 4: Evaluate ∫₀^2 6x dx.
Hint
Find an antiderivative and apply upper minus lower limit.
Answer guide
3·2² = 12.
Challenge18 minutes
Homework 5: Find the stationary point of f(x)=x²-8x+9.
Hint
Set f'(x)=0, then find y.
Answer guide
x=4, y=-7=-7.
Challenge20 minutes
Homework 6: If ds/dt=5t+6 and s(0)=11, find s(t).
Hint
Integrate and use the initial condition.
Answer guide
s(t)=2.5t²+6t+11.
50 minutes / 40 marks
Full chapter test
A timed, full-mark self-assessment with model-answer guidance.
Start the timer when ready, work without notes, show every step, and open model answers only after finishing.
1. For f(x)=x²+9x, find f'(x).
2 marks
Answer guide
f'(x)=2x+9.
2. Find the gradient of f(x)=x²+5x at x=3.
3 marks
Answer guide
f'(3)=2·3+5=11.
3. Find ∫(8x+5)dx.
3 marks
Answer guide
4x²+5x+C.
4. Evaluate ∫₀^2 4x dx.
4 marks
Answer guide
2·2² = 8.
5. Find the stationary point of f(x)=x²-8x+7.
4 marks
Answer guide
x=4, y=-9=-9.
6. If ds/dt=3t+6 and s(0)=9, find s(t).
4 marks
Answer guide
s(t)=1.5t²+6t+9.
7. Check whether F(x)=3x²+3x is an antiderivative of f(x)=6x+3.
5 marks
Answer guide
F'(x)=6x+3=f(x), so yes.
8. A learner writes d(x³)/dx=3x. Correct it and explain the rule.
5 marks
Answer guide
d(x³)/dx=3x².
9. Model a rate of change connected with “AA: proof, exact algebra, analytical calculus, trigonometric identities” and explain derivative units.
5 marks
Answer guide
A full response defines independent/dependent variables, gives a function or data, and interprets the derivative as output units per input unit.
10. Combine differentiation and integration in an exam-style problem about “AI: technology, modelling, statistics, interpretation of results” and check the result.
5 marks
Answer guide
A full solution defines variables/units, uses a derivative for instantaneous rate, an integral for accumulated change, and checks their inverse relationship.
Unit
Official sources and verification
Curriculum reference sources. Always confirm the teaching sequence with the school and tutor.