Learn what differentiation really is with an Oxford graduate. This lesson is an introduction to differentiation and explains what it is we are actually finding when we differentiate. Differentiation is all about rate of change or gradient. In order to understand this, we look at a simple example (y=x^2) and derive the equation for the gradient from first principles. At each step, we talk about exactly what we are doing and what it all means - something that is often lost in the teaching and learning of differentiation. Understanding this will help you appreciate what the standard results table is all about. This is the first lesson in a series on differentiation. It introduces the concept of differentiation but does not actually explain in depth how to differentiate anything other than y=x^2. For how to actually differentiate, click on the following links: 1. How to differentiate powers of x using the power rule: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDkqXHXiwVk 2. How to differentiate other common functions: (coming very soon) 3. How to use the chain rule: (coming very soon) 4. How to use the product rule: (coming very soon) 5. How to use the quotient rule: (coming very soon) 6. How to do successive differentiation: (coming soon) 7. How to use differentiation to find maximum and minimum points: (coming soon) 8. How to do logarithmic differentiation: (coming soon) 9. How to differentiate more complex functions: (coming soon) If you want to watch a specific part of the lesson, click on the following links to take you to the relevant part of the video: - What differentiation is all about: 01:04 - An example - y=x^2 : 04:06 - What the derivative really means: 10:54 - An introduction to standard results: 12:48 Previous knowledge required: - An understanding of gradient: (coming soon) - How to transpose equations: (coming soon) - How to simplify algebra: (coming soon) - An understanding of graphs Where to go next: - How to do and use differentiation (see list above) - An introduction to integration: (coming soon) ___ OxMath tutorials upload maths lessons on all topics at every level so make sure you subscribe for more lessons. OxMath provides easy to understand maths tutorials for learners, teachers and parents. The lessons are given by an Oxford Graduate with a First class Masters degree in Engineering, a PGCE in Maths and experience as a maths teacher at various schools and FE facilities. The lessons contain thorough explanations aimed at achieving a comprehensive understanding rather than rote learning. Although you will learn the methods required for school and passing exams, you will also gain knowledge of the underlying theory and how the methods work. This leads to a better understanding of maths in general, a greater ability to apply the maths when required and better grades. The playlists are sorted by key stage and topic area but not by grade, as OxMath strongly believes that there are no limits to a learners potential and nobody should be put off by a topic's supposed grade. Instead, the videos are linked so you know what previous knowledge is required and where to go next! If you have any comments about the video or requests for future lessons please comment below.