This site is designed to explore various root approximation methods.

 

Sometimes the roots of various functions cannot be determined by conventional means. Students are typically taught to use the quadratic formula or factoring to obtain these roots. However, sometimes roots of these functions cannot be determined using these methods. Therefore, alternative approaches to root finding need to be executed in order to obtain these roots.

 
By clicking the above links you will be directed to various pages that demonstrate how these methods can be implemented.


Derivatives:
This page explores derivatives and their fundamental properties as is utilized in Newton's Method.



Newton:
This page gives a visual representation of this root finding method and includes a Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet that assists students in performing the necessary calculations.




Bisection:
Similar to Newton's page, this page demonstrates to students how roots can be discovered utilizing the intermediate value theorem.


Secant:
Secant lines can also be helpful in determining the roots of functions. This page illustrates how this process works.

After learning about these different items,
come back to this page to try this laboratory experience.

Laboratory
Rubric for Assessment