Session 1: Introduction to Derivatives

OCW Scholar

« Previous | Next »

 

Overview

This session provides a brief overview of Unit 1 and describes the derivative as the slope of a tangent line. It concludes by stating the main formula defining the derivative.

Lecture Videos and Notes

Video Excerpts

» Clip 1: Introduction to 18.01 (00:03:00)

» Accompanying Notes (PDF)

From Lecture 1 of 18.01 Single Variable Calculus, Fall 2006

» Clip 2: Geometric Interpretation of Differentiation (00:05:00)

» Accompanying Notes (PDF)

From Lecture 1 of 18.01 Single Variable Calculus, Fall 2006

» Clip 3: Limit of Secants (00:03:00)

» Accompanying Notes (PDF)

From Lecture 1 of 18.01 Single Variable Calculus, Fall 2006

» Clip 4: Slope as Ratio (00:02:00)

» Accompanying Notes (PDF)

From Lecture 1 of 18.01 Single Variable Calculus, Fall 2006

» Clip 5: Main Formula (00:03:00)

» Accompanying Notes (PDF)

From Lecture 1 of 18.01 Single Variable Calculus, Fall 2006

Worked Example

Secants and Tangents

Please use the mathlet below to complete the problem.

Mathlet

Secant Approximation

Recitation Video

Definition of Derivative

Flash and JavaScript are required for this feature.

Graphing a Derivative Function

Flash and JavaScript are required for this feature.

 

« Previous | Next »