Differentiation

1. Estimate the slopes of curves by drawing tangent lines. 2. Utilize the derivatives of functions in the form ax^n, where 'a' is a rational constant and 'n' is a non-negative integer, including simple combinations of up to three of these functions. 3. Use differentiation to find slopes and identify stationary points (turning points). 4. Differentiate between maximum and minimum points using methods such as: • creating an accurate sketch • applying the second derivative test • examining the gradient on either side of a turning point. Note that candidates are not required to find points of inflection.