The Derivative Challenge
Calculus Practice for Differentiation Rules, Problem-
Solving & Rates of Change
Calculus
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, Grid Learning System (GLS) - Puzzle Based Mathematical Reasoning
WHAT YOU WILL LEARN
▸ Recognize and define core derivative vocabulary, including derivative, tangent line,
secant line, and differentiability.
▸Explain how secant lines, tangent lines, derivatives, and differentiability all relate to one
another, including the connection between differentiability and continuity.
▸ Define vocabulary related to the major differentiation rules, including the power rule,
product rule, quotient rule, and chain rule.
▸ Classify a function by which differentiation rule is primarily required to differentiate it.
▸ Use elimination reasoning to determine which derivative corresponds to which original
function from indirect clues.
▸ Apply the power rule across a repeated pattern of derivatives, and correctly sequence
the steps for differentiating a product of two functions.
▸ Evaluate derivatives at specific input values to solve problems and reveal a hidden
word.
HOW TO PLAY - YOUR PUZZLE JOURNEY
This template takes you through seven learning puzzles built around the same topic, each
one built around a different way of thinking, plus a dedicated Bonus Challenge Section with
ten tiered challenges, and a Player Progress Tracker at the end.
Every puzzle also includes its own Concept Check.
Every answer is collected together near the end so you (or a parent or teacher) can check
the work.
1 WORD SEARCH - Recognize: Find every key term hidden in the grid.
2 CONCEPT MAP - Connect: Fill in how key terms relate to one another.
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, Grid Learning System (GLS) - Puzzle Based Mathematical Reasoning
3 CROSSWORD - Retrieve: Use the clues to spell out each key term correctly.
4 SORT & CLASSIFY - Distinguish: Place each item into its correct category.
5 LOGIC GRID - Deduce: Use the clues to match each entity correctly.
SEQUENCE & PATTERN - Organize: Fill in several missing items, then
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reorder a scrambled sequence, and explain the rule.
CODEBREAKER - Apply: Use the Code Key to answer each question and
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reveal the hidden message.
BONUS CHALLENGE SECTION - Transfer: Complete ten tiered challenges
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of increasing depth.
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, Grid Learning System (GLS) - Puzzle Based Mathematical Reasoning
DERIVATIVE VOCABULARY UNLOCK - PUZZLE 1
OF 7: WORD SEARCH
Puzzle Focus: This warm-up reinforces the core vocabulary of derivatives - tangent,
secant, instantaneous, and more - before you apply these ideas in the puzzles ahead.
Find every item from the bank below - it may run across, down, or diagonally.
E T G R S L O P E U J L L S N
E F F A L B R A A P D F O O T
T L O T O F K X S D O V I D S
R V B E N Y W R L S K T T U O
T E Q A G O P F T X A T O D I
E L A L I R I N U R N E D G E
M O Q T N T E T E D N R Q Z V
M C Y J N G N L A A M H W S I
N I B X N A E E T T S K D V T
R T K A Q C C N R D O S P L A
V Y T J C P A E S E L N Q V V
G I B A X T K B S H F C H J I
U L W B S S U R I E E F Q D R
P M F N F N K L V Q J Z I G E
S F I L E I P V L K B T E D D
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