Introduce the historical perspective. Most people agree that when we understand where people come from, we like them more. We understand why they think the way they do, and how their origins and personal history affects who they are. Calculus is no different. The first step to making calculus fun is to make it relatable. Do this by teaching your class the main ideas of calculus that were developed by the ancient Greeks. From Archimedes to Newton to Cauchy, talk about the people who contributed to calculus. Associating calculus principles with real people will give the students context surrounding the complicated principles. If time permits, have each student pick a mathematics pioneer for a report to show how that person contributed to the subject matter.
Teach the vocabulary. Before launching into the lesson, make sure that your students understand the language of calculus. Calculus has its own mathematical language which can transfer into other subjects. For example, use terms such as "converge," "vectors," "integral" and "derivative." Have the students discuss how they would use these words outside of a calculus classroom. By placing the words and vocabulary of calculus in another setting, the words will have additional context and will become more ingrained in the students' minds, rather than just in a calculus setting.
To make calculus come to life for your students, use games to teach your students the lessons. One such game is called "Pin the Nose on Isaac Newton." Announce a calculus problem and have each student write her answer on a piece of paper that looks like a nose. Blindfold the student, spin her around and have her stick the "nose" on a picture of Isaac Newton. The student who has the nose closest -- and the correct answer -- wins.
Review material. Once the basics of calculus have been taught in a fun and exciting way, the students will need to remember the lessons and prepare for their exam or upcoming test. A fun way to do this is to make a game of test preparation. By mimicking the game, "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire," the students will remember the concepts of calculus. Have the class divide into teams and ask a series of questions. Lifelines can be used and will take the format of checking notes. Keep track of scores and missing one question will eliminate a team. The winning team can receive a prize of your choice.