Directional Derivatives

Highlights of the activity

1. This small group activity using surfaces relates the geometric definition of directional derivatives to the components of the gradient vector.
2. Students work in small groups to measure a directional derivative directly, then compare its components with measured partial derivatives in rectangular coordinates.
3. The whole class wrap-up discussion emphasizes the relationship between the geometric gradient vector and directional derivatives.

Reasons to spend class time on the activity

Clarifies the geometry of the gradient vector and its components.

Reflections

• Reflections from the original implementation.

• Reflections from "official" adapters/adopters.

• Reflections from the general public.

Instructor's Guide

• Wiki version

Student Handouts

mvdderivhand.pdf