Title: Using technology to illustrate level curves


Authors: Holly P. Hirst and Jeffry L. Hirst, Appalachian State University

Session: My Favorite Demo: Innovative Strategies for Mathematics Instructors (MAA CP S1)

Meeting number: 993
Meeting location: Phoenix, Arizona
Presentation date: 1/10/2004 at 10am

Abstract: (993-S1-427)

Level curves have long been a standard topic in both traditional and reform presentations of multivariate calculus. In some reform texts, level curve representations of functions are receiving increased emphasis. Thanks to technology, we can lift our illustrations of level curves from the page and present them in 3-space, where their meaning and import is more obvious. The simple act of rotating a 3 dimensional Maple plot with contour lines can teach a student more about level curves than countless flat diagrams.

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