TRICEF ACADEMY · PADAPPAI

A first look at differentiation

UNDERSTAND · PRACTISE · REVIEW

A derivative describes instantaneous rate of change. Practise the power rule with small expressions, then evaluate at a stated input. Do not confuse a derivative function with its value at one point.

A worked example

If f(x) = 3x², then f′(x) = 6x. At x = 2 the derivative is 12. The original function value is f(2) = 12 here, but these are different quantities.

Try this learning routine

  1. Read the explanation and say the idea in your own words.
  2. Cover the worked answer and attempt a similar question.
  3. Check each step, including units or word meaning.
  4. Record one mistake and retry a new example later.

Independent practice

Choose one answer for each question and write a reason. These are foundation activities, not a complete board examination.

  1. For f(x)=3x², find f′(3).

    • 9
    • 18
    • 20
    • 19
  2. For f(x)=4x², find f′(4).

    • 16
    • 32
    • 33
    • 34
  3. For f(x)=5x², find f′(5).

    • 51
    • 25
    • 52
    • 50
  4. For f(x)=6x², find f′(6).

    • 36
    • 74
    • 73
    • 72
  5. For f(x)=7x², find f′(2).

    • 29
    • 30
    • 28
    • 14
  6. For f(x)=8x², find f′(3).

    • 48
    • 49
    • 50
    • 24
Answers and explanations
  1. 18 — f′(x)=2(3)x; substitute x=3 to obtain 18.
  2. 32 — f′(x)=2(4)x; substitute x=4 to obtain 32.
  3. 50 — f′(x)=2(5)x; substitute x=5 to obtain 50.
  4. 72 — f′(x)=2(6)x; substitute x=6 to obtain 72.
  5. 28 — f′(x)=2(7)x; substitute x=2 to obtain 28.
  6. 48 — f′(x)=2(8)x; substitute x=3 to obtain 48.

Your next step

Use the same idea in a fresh example. Bring the method and your questions to a discussion with TRICEF, rather than relying on a score alone.

Try a practice assessment

Original TRICEF Academy practice material. Not an official board paper. Open the answer section before printing if you want the answer key included.

A LITTLE MORE CLARITY

Questions, answered.

Useful details before your next step.

Can these resources be used at home?

Yes. Read the explanation, attempt independently, then check the answer. A parent or guardian should assist younger learners.

Does one score describe the learner’s whole ability?

No. A short practice check samples limited skills. Discuss the explanations and actual work when choosing the next learning step.

YOUR NEXT STEP

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