Explain the timing of a lake cleanup to the EPA using calculus. A project-based learning opportunity has learners compare rate functions to compute a total change. Their solutions explain the time needed to rid a lake of pollutants.

Concepts

fundamental theorem of calculus, area, substitution method, left and right

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Additional Tags

math

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Instructional Ideas

• Ask your pupils to show two methods of answering the question and then compare the solutions

Classroom Considerations

• Requires graphing calculators
• Expects an understanding of the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus and/or left and right sums

Pros

• Provides a means to make the problem unique for each individual
• Presents the problem within the context of a real-life situation to provide relevancy

Cons

• Does not show a sample solution or include a rubric for scoring