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How to Teach Math & Calculus Terminology

Math in general and calculus in particular can have a lot of challenging terms for students to learn. Math terminology often can include terms that students may have never heard before, such as tangent line, slope or secant. Other math terms can be ordinary words being used in a different way, such as odd, even or undefined. There are a few different methods you can use to help teach math and calculus terminology to students.

Instructions

    • 1

      Introduce each word by saying it correctly. Do not give math terms any other name, such as calling a tangent line an intersecting line. While a tangent line should be described as a line that intersects at just one point, it should only be referred to by its proper name: a tangent line.

    • 2

      Explain what each math and calculus term means in simple terms. This is basically giving the definition of the word. For example, "A secant line is a line segment which intersects at two different points."

    • 3

      Demonstrate each math term. A clear demonstration will help students understand the math or calculus terminology and retain it. For example, draw a circle. Then, draw a straight line that touches the edge of the circle at one point only. Since the line intersects the circle at only this one point, it's a tangent line. Draw a second line that goes through two sides of the circle. Since this line intersects at two points, it's a secant line. Explain this as you demonstrate the terms.

    • 4

      Create flashcards. One set of flashcards can have the math term on one side and a written definition on the other, while another set can have the math term on one side and a visual representation of the term on the other. Allow students to work in pairs and practice with the flashcards.

    • 5

      Give students a worksheet that requires them to use math and calculus terms. You can require the students to explain the definition of each term or to demonstrate the term. This written work will help them learn the terms more quickly.

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