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GELE MathematicsDifferential CalculusExam Answer Templates

Differential Calculus answer templates for the GELE 2026. These are the step-by-step approaches that work on Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) — Board of Geodetic Engineering's most common question formats in the GELE Mathematics subtest. Memorise the structure, practise with real questions, then execute on exam day.

Exam context

Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) — Board of Geodetic Engineering runs the Geodetic Engineer Licensure Examination on September 2026. Its Mathematics section sits under a "Core" weighting, and Differential Calculus is the 5th chapter in the 10-chapter GELE Mathematics rotation. The GELE passing mark is 70% weighted average, no sub-test below 50%, and the most recent 2026 paper drew about a meaningful share of questions from Mathematics.

Differential Calculus - Exam Answer Templates

In the MSTE (Mathematics, Surveying, and Transportation Engineering) portion of the PRC Civil Engineer Licensure Examination, how you write your answer is just as important as getting the correct numerical value. Examiners award partial marks for correct setup, proper formula identification, and correct substitution — even if the final answer is wrong. These templates show you the exact format, language, and structure that maximises marks at every point level: from 1-mark recall items to 5-mark full optimization or related-rates problems. Study the model answers carefully, replicate the Given → Find → Solution → Answer structure, always box your final answer, and never substitute numerical values before differentiating in related-rates problems.

Templates

State the Power Rule of differentiation.

Marks

1

Topic

Derivative Rules

Difficulty

easy

Template Id

T1

Examiner Tip

Write the formula in Leibniz notation d/dx — mixed notation loses the mark on strict marking schemes.

Model Answer

Power Rule: d/dx (x^n) = n·x^(n−1), where n is any real number.

Question Type

very_short_answer

Answer Structure

  • Line 1: Write the formula d/dx(x^n) = n·x^(n-1) with correct notation [1 mark]

Scoring Breakdown

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct formula with exponent decreased by 1 and coefficient n stated

Common Mark Deductions

  • Writing nx^n instead of nx^(n-1) — exponent not reduced
  • Omitting the coefficient n in front of x
  • Restricting n to integers only when the rule applies to all real n

Key Phrases To Include

  • d/dx
  • x^n
  • n·x^(n−1)
  • real number

Differentiate y = 5x^4 − 3x^2 + 7x − 2 and evaluate y′ at x = 1.

Marks

2

Topic

Derivative Rules — Power Rule

Difficulty

easy

Template Id

T2

Examiner Tip

Write each term's derivative on a separate line — this makes it easier for the examiner to award partial marks if one term is wrong.

Model Answer

Given: y = 5x^4 − 3x^2 + 7x − 2 Required: y′ and y′(1) Solution: y′ = d/dx(5x^4) − d/dx(3x^2) + d/dx(7x) − d/dx(2) y′ = 20x^3 − 6x + 7 At x = 1: y′(1) = 20(1)^3 − 6(1) + 7 y′(1) = 20 − 6 + 7 ∴ y′(1) = 21

Question Type

numerical

Answer Structure

  • Step 1: Apply power rule term-by-term to obtain y′ = 20x^3 − 6x + 7 [1 mark]
  • Step 2: Substitute x = 1 and evaluate to get 21 [1 mark]

Scoring Breakdown

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct derivative expression y′ = 20x^3 − 6x + 7

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct substitution and final value y′(1) = 21

Common Mark Deductions

  • Forgetting the derivative of the constant −2 is zero (should simply vanish)
  • Arithmetic error in evaluating 20(1) − 6(1) + 7
  • Not writing the derivative expression before substituting

Key Phrases To Include

  • y′ = 20x^3 − 6x + 7
  • power rule
  • term-by-term
  • y′(1) = 21

Differentiate y = (3x^2 + 1)(2x − 5) using the Product Rule.

Marks

2

Topic

Derivative Rules — Product Rule

Difficulty

easy

Template Id

T3

Examiner Tip

Explicitly label u, v, u′, v′ before writing the formula — this structured approach earns the method mark even if arithmetic fails.

Model Answer

Given: y = (3x^2 + 1)(2x − 5) Required: y′ Solution: Let u = 3x^2 + 1 → u′ = 6x Let v = 2x − 5 → v′ = 2 Product Rule: y′ = u′v + uv′ y′ = (6x)(2x − 5) + (3x^2 + 1)(2) y′ = 12x^2 − 30x + 6x^2 + 2 ∴ y′ = 18x^2 − 30x + 2

Question Type

numerical

Answer Structure

  • Step 1: Identify u and v, then compute u′ and v′ [0.5 mark — setup]
  • Step 2: Apply Product Rule formula y′ = u′v + uv′ and state it [0.5 mark]
  • Step 3: Substitute and expand correctly [0.5 mark]
  • Step 4: Simplify to final form 18x^2 − 30x + 2 [0.5 mark]

Scoring Breakdown

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct identification of u, v, u′, v′ and proper application of product rule formula

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct expansion and simplification to y′ = 18x^2 − 30x + 2

Common Mark Deductions

  • Using uv′ − u′v (confusing with Quotient Rule numerator order)
  • Errors in expanding (3x^2 + 1)(2) — forgetting to distribute the 2
  • Not simplifying like terms in the final answer

Key Phrases To Include

  • Product Rule
  • u′v + uv′
  • u = 3x^2 + 1
  • v = 2x − 5
  • y′ = 18x^2 − 30x + 2

Using the Chain Rule, differentiate y = (4x^3 − 2x)^5.

Marks

2

Topic

Derivative Rules — Chain Rule

Difficulty

medium

Template Id

T4

Examiner Tip

Always write 'Chain Rule: dy/dx = f′(u)·u′' as a header — it signals to the examiner you know the method and earns the method mark.

Model Answer

Given: y = (4x^3 − 2x)^5 Required: y′ Solution: Let u = 4x^3 − 2x → u′ = 12x^2 − 2 Chain Rule: y′ = 5u^4 · u′ y′ = 5(4x^3 − 2x)^4 · (12x^2 − 2) ∴ y′ = 5(12x^2 − 2)(4x^3 − 2x)^4

Question Type

numerical

Answer Structure

  • Step 1: Identify inner function u = 4x^3 − 2x and differentiate to get u′ = 12x^2 − 2 [1 mark]
  • Step 2: Apply Chain Rule: bring down exponent 5, reduce power by 1, multiply by u′ [1 mark]

Scoring Breakdown

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct inner derivative u′ = 12x^2 − 2

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct chain rule application: 5(4x^3 − 2x)^4 · (12x^2 − 2)

Common Mark Deductions

  • Forgetting to multiply by the inner derivative u′ — the most common chain rule error
  • Reducing the exponent to 4 but keeping original exponent in u — power reduction omitted
  • Differentiating only the outer function without touching the inner

Key Phrases To Include

  • Chain Rule
  • inner function
  • u′ = 12x^2 − 2
  • 5(4x^3 − 2x)^4

Evaluate: lim(x→2) [(x^2 − 4)/(x − 2)]

Marks

2

Topic

Limits and Continuity

Difficulty

easy

Template Id

T5

Examiner Tip

Always attempt direct substitution first and explicitly state the result — 'Direct substitution gives 0/0 — indeterminate form' is a required step that earns a mark.

Model Answer

Given: lim(x→2) [(x^2 − 4)/(x − 2)] Solution: Direct substitution: (4 − 4)/(2 − 2) = 0/0 → Indeterminate form Method 1 — Factoring: (x^2 − 4)/(x − 2) = (x + 2)(x − 2)/(x − 2) = x + 2 (for x ≠ 2) lim(x→2) (x + 2) = 2 + 2 = 4 ∴ lim(x→2) [(x^2 − 4)/(x − 2)] = 4

Question Type

numerical

Answer Structure

  • Step 1: Attempt direct substitution and identify 0/0 indeterminate form [0.5 mark]
  • Step 2: Factor numerator as (x+2)(x−2) [0.5 mark]
  • Step 3: Cancel (x−2) factor [0.5 mark]
  • Step 4: Evaluate limit = 4 [0.5 mark]

Scoring Breakdown

Marks

1

Criteria

Recognition of indeterminate form and correct algebraic manipulation (factoring and cancellation)

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct final value of 4

Common Mark Deductions

  • Concluding the limit does not exist because direct substitution gave 0/0 — must resolve the indeterminate form
  • Not writing 'for x ≠ 2' after cancellation
  • Arithmetic error after cancellation

Key Phrases To Include

  • indeterminate form 0/0
  • factoring
  • (x+2)(x−2)
  • cancel
  • limit = 4

Evaluate using L'Hôpital's Rule: lim(x→0) [sin(3x)/x]

Marks

3

Topic

Limits and Continuity — L'Hôpital's Rule

Difficulty

medium

Template Id

T6

Examiner Tip

State 'L'Hôpital's Rule: since the form is 0/0, lim f/g = lim f′/g′' as a labelled step — this phrase alone earns the method mark.

Model Answer

Given: lim(x→0) [sin(3x)/x] Solution: Step 1 — Check indeterminate form: Direct substitution: sin(0)/0 = 0/0 → Indeterminate form ✓ L'Hôpital's Rule applies. Step 2 — Differentiate numerator and denominator separately: d/dx [sin(3x)] = 3cos(3x) d/dx [x] = 1 Step 3 — Apply L'Hôpital's Rule: lim(x→0) [sin(3x)/x] = lim(x→0) [3cos(3x)/1] Step 4 — Evaluate: = 3cos(3·0) = 3cos(0) = 3(1) ∴ lim(x→0) [sin(3x)/x] = 3

Question Type

numerical

Answer Structure

  • Step 1: Verify 0/0 indeterminate form by direct substitution [1 mark]
  • Step 2: Differentiate numerator sin(3x) → 3cos(3x) using chain rule [1 mark]
  • Step 3: Form new limit and evaluate to get 3 [1 mark]

Scoring Breakdown

Marks

1

Criteria

Explicit verification of 0/0 indeterminate form

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct derivatives of numerator and denominator, including chain rule on sin(3x)

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct final answer = 3

Common Mark Deductions

  • Applying L'Hôpital without first verifying the indeterminate form
  • Differentiating sin(3x)/x as a quotient instead of differentiating numerator and denominator separately
  • Forgetting the chain rule: writing d/dx[sin(3x)] = cos(3x) instead of 3cos(3x)

Key Phrases To Include

  • indeterminate form 0/0
  • L'Hôpital's Rule
  • d/dx[sin(3x)] = 3cos(3x)
  • 3cos(0) = 3

Find the critical points of f(x) = 2x^3 − 9x^2 + 12x − 4 and classify each as a local maximum or minimum.

Marks

3

Topic

Maxima and Minima

Difficulty

medium

Template Id

T7

Examiner Tip

Write the classification rule explicitly: 'f″ > 0 → minimum, f″ < 0 → maximum' — examiners want to see that you know the test, not just the result.

Model Answer

Given: f(x) = 2x^3 − 9x^2 + 12x − 4 Required: Critical points and their classification Solution: Step 1 — First Derivative: f′(x) = 6x^2 − 18x + 12 Step 2 — Set f′(x) = 0: 6x^2 − 18x + 12 = 0 x^2 − 3x + 2 = 0 (÷ by 6) (x − 1)(x − 2) = 0 ∴ x = 1 and x = 2 (critical points) Step 3 — Second Derivative Test: f″(x) = 12x − 18 At x = 1: f″(1) = 12(1) − 18 = −6 < 0 → Local MAXIMUM f(1) = 2(1) − 9(1) + 12(1) − 4 = 1 At x = 2: f″(2) = 12(2) − 18 = +6 > 0 → Local MINIMUM f(2) = 2(8) − 9(4) + 12(2) − 4 = 16 − 36 + 24 − 4 = 0 ∴ Local maximum at (1, 1); Local minimum at (2, 0)

Question Type

numerical

Answer Structure

  • Step 1: Compute f′(x) = 6x^2 − 18x + 12 correctly [1 mark]
  • Step 2: Solve f′(x) = 0 to obtain critical points x = 1 and x = 2 [1 mark]
  • Step 3: Apply second-derivative test and correctly classify both points with function values [1 mark]

Scoring Breakdown

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct first derivative f′(x) = 6x^2 − 18x + 12

Marks

1

Criteria

Both critical points x = 1 and x = 2 found by solving f′(x) = 0

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct second-derivative test classification with explicit sign reasoning (−6 < 0 → max; +6 > 0 → min) and correct (x, y) coordinates

Common Mark Deductions

  • Finding x values but not computing y = f(x) values for the complete coordinate
  • Stating 'minimum' or 'maximum' without the sign of f″ — reasoning must be shown
  • Arithmetic error in evaluating f(2): expanding 2(8) = 16, not 2(4)

Key Phrases To Include

  • f′(x) = 0
  • critical points
  • second derivative test
  • f″(1) < 0 → local maximum
  • f″(2) > 0 → local minimum

A farmer has 80 m of fencing to enclose a rectangular garden against a long straight wall (wall forms one side; fencing used for the other three sides). Find the dimensions that maximise the enclosed area.

Marks

5

Topic

Maxima and Minima — Optimization

Difficulty

hard

Template Id

T8

Examiner Tip

Label the constraint equation and objective function explicitly. Examiners follow a mark scheme; each labelled step corresponds to a mark. A well-organized solution earns all 5 marks even with a minor arithmetic slip.

Model Answer

Given: Total fencing available = 80 m; one side provided by existing wall. Required: Dimensions (length × width) for maximum area. Solution: Step 1 — Define variables: Let x = width (perpendicular to wall), m Let y = length (parallel to wall), m Constraint: 2x + y = 80 Step 2 — Express constraint: y = 80 − 2x Step 3 — Write objective function (area): A(x) = x · y = x(80 − 2x) = 80x − 2x^2 Step 4 — Differentiate and set to zero: A′(x) = 80 − 4x = 0 x = 20 m Step 5 — Second-derivative test: A″(x) = −4 < 0 → Maximum confirmed ✓ Step 6 — Find y: y = 80 − 2(20) = 40 m Step 7 — Maximum area: A_max = 20 × 40 = 800 m² ∴ The dimensions for maximum area are 20 m × 40 m, giving A_max = 800 m².

Question Type

long_answer

Answer Structure

  • Step 1: Define variables clearly with units [0.5 mark]
  • Step 2: Write constraint equation 2x + y = 80 [0.5 mark]
  • Step 3: Form objective function A(x) = 80x − 2x^2 in one variable [1 mark]
  • Step 4: Differentiate and solve A′(x) = 0 → x = 20 m [1 mark]
  • Step 5: Confirm maximum via second-derivative test A″ = −4 < 0 [1 mark]
  • Step 6–7: State both dimensions and maximum area with units [1 mark]

Scoring Breakdown

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct constraint equation 2x + y = 80 and expression y = 80 − 2x

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct objective function A(x) = 80x − 2x^2 in single variable

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct derivative A′(x) = 80 − 4x and solution x = 20 m

Marks

1

Criteria

Second-derivative test performed and maximum confirmed (A″ < 0)

Marks

1

Criteria

Both dimensions (20 m × 40 m) and maximum area (800 m²) stated with units

Common Mark Deductions

  • Using y = 80 − x instead of y = 80 − 2x (forgetting both widths use fencing)
  • Not applying the second-derivative test — loses the classification mark
  • Omitting units (metres, m²) on final answer
  • Solving for x but not computing y — incomplete answer
  • Expressing A in two variables without substituting the constraint first

Key Phrases To Include

  • constraint
  • objective function
  • A′(x) = 0
  • x = 20 m
  • y = 40 m
  • A″ < 0 → maximum
  • A_max = 800 m²

An open cylindrical tank (no top) is to have a volume of 16π m³. Find the radius and height that minimise the total surface area of the tank.

Marks

5

Topic

Maxima and Minima — Engineering Optimization

Difficulty

hard

Template Id

T9

Examiner Tip

The key phrase 'open cylindrical tank (no top)' determines the surface area formula. Read the problem carefully and write 'No top: S = πr^2 + 2πrh' in the solution — this clarifies your formula choice to the examiner.

Model Answer

Given: Volume V = 16π m³; open-top cylinder (no lid). Required: Radius r and height h for minimum surface area. Solution: Step 1 — Objective function (surface area — base + lateral): S = πr^2 + 2πrh Step 2 — Volume constraint: V = πr^2 h = 16π ∴ h = 16/r^2 Step 3 — Substitute h into S: S(r) = πr^2 + 2πr·(16/r^2) S(r) = πr^2 + 32π/r Step 4 — Differentiate and set to zero: S′(r) = 2πr − 32π/r^2 = 0 2πr = 32π/r^2 r^3 = 16 r = 16^(1/3) = 2∛2 ≈ 2.52 m Step 5 — Second-derivative test: S″(r) = 2π + 64π/r^3 Since S″ > 0 for all r > 0 → Minimum confirmed ✓ Step 6 — Find h: h = 16/r^2 = 16/(16^(2/3)) = 16^(1/3) = 2∛2 ≈ 2.52 m Step 7 — Minimum surface area: S_min = π(16^(2/3)) + 32π/(16^(1/3)) S_min = π·16^(2/3) + 2π·16^(2/3) = 3π·16^(2/3) ≈ 59.9 m² ∴ Minimum surface area at r = h = 2∛2 m ≈ 2.52 m (r = h relationship for open cylinder).

Question Type

long_answer

Answer Structure

  • Step 1: Write surface area formula for open cylinder S = πr^2 + 2πrh [0.5 mark]
  • Step 2: Use volume constraint to express h = 16/r^2 [1 mark]
  • Step 3: Substitute into S to get S(r) = πr^2 + 32π/r [1 mark]
  • Step 4: Differentiate, set S′(r) = 0, solve for r = 16^(1/3) [1 mark]
  • Step 5: Apply second-derivative test to confirm minimum [0.5 mark]
  • Step 6–7: Find h and state S_min with units [1 mark]

Scoring Breakdown

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct open-top surface area formula and constraint equation

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct single-variable function S(r) = πr^2 + 32π/r

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct derivative S′(r) and r = 16^(1/3)

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct h value and numerical answers in m and m²

Marks

1

Criteria

Second-derivative test confirming minimum and complete final answer with units

Common Mark Deductions

  • Using S = 2πr^2 + 2πrh (closed cylinder formula — adds the top lid incorrectly)
  • Not eliminating h before differentiating — S must be in one variable only
  • Solving r^3 = 16 as r = 16/3 (arithmetic/algebra error)

Key Phrases To Include

  • open cylinder
  • S = πr^2 + 2πrh
  • constraint πr^2h = 16π
  • h = 16/r^2
  • S′(r) = 0
  • r = 16^(1/3)
  • minimum confirmed

A ladder 5 m long leans against a vertical wall. The base slides away from the wall at 0.4 m/s. How fast is the top of the ladder sliding down the wall when the base is 3 m from the wall?

Marks

5

Topic

Related Rates

Difficulty

hard

Template Id

T10

Examiner Tip

Underline or circle the step 'Differentiate w.r.t. t FIRST, substitute values SECOND' on your answer sheet — this is the cardinal rule of related rates and examiners check it.

Model Answer

Given: Ladder length L = 5 m (constant); dx/dt = +0.4 m/s; x = 3 m at the instant of interest. Required: dy/dt when x = 3 m. Solution: Step 1 — Draw diagram and label: x = horizontal distance (base to wall), y = vertical height (top on wall). Pythagorean relation: x^2 + y^2 = L^2 = 25 Step 2 — Find y when x = 3: y = √(25 − 9) = √16 = 4 m Step 3 — Differentiate the relation with respect to t: d/dt(x^2 + y^2) = d/dt(25) 2x(dx/dt) + 2y(dy/dt) = 0 Step 4 — Substitute known values: 2(3)(0.4) + 2(4)(dy/dt) = 0 2.4 + 8(dy/dt) = 0 dy/dt = −2.4/8 = −0.3 m/s ∴ The top of the ladder is sliding DOWN the wall at 0.3 m/s. (Negative sign confirms downward direction — consistent with physics.)

Question Type

long_answer

Answer Structure

  • Step 1: Draw and label diagram; write Pythagorean relation x^2 + y^2 = 25 [1 mark]
  • Step 2: Calculate y = 4 m when x = 3 m [0.5 mark]
  • Step 3: Differentiate x^2 + y^2 = 25 with respect to t to get 2x(dx/dt) + 2y(dy/dt) = 0 [1.5 marks]
  • Step 4: Substitute x = 3, y = 4, dx/dt = 0.4 and solve for dy/dt = −0.3 m/s [1 mark]
  • Step 5: Interpret the negative sign — sliding down [1 mark]

Scoring Breakdown

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct geometric relation x^2 + y^2 = 25 and labeled diagram

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct implicit differentiation with respect to t: 2x(dx/dt) + 2y(dy/dt) = 0

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct y = 4 m calculated before substitution

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct substitution and solving for dy/dt = −0.3 m/s

Marks

1

Criteria

Physical interpretation: top slides DOWN at 0.3 m/s; sign explained

Common Mark Deductions

  • Substituting x = 3, y = 4 BEFORE differentiating — must differentiate the equation first
  • Differentiating with respect to x instead of t
  • Not finding y = 4 m first; substituting y = unknown into the differentiated equation
  • Omitting the negative sign or failing to interpret it as 'downward'

Key Phrases To Include

  • x^2 + y^2 = 25
  • differentiate with respect to t
  • implicit differentiation
  • 2x(dx/dt) + 2y(dy/dt) = 0
  • dy/dt = −0.3 m/s
  • sliding down

Water drains from a conical tank (vertex down) at 2 m³/min. The tank has height 6 m and radius 3 m. Find the rate at which the water level drops when the water depth is 4 m.

Marks

5

Topic

Related Rates — Conical Tank

Difficulty

hard

Template Id

T11

Examiner Tip

Draw a cross-section of the cone and mark the similar triangles explicitly — this diagram alone earns the method mark for the r–h relationship.

Model Answer

Given: dV/dt = −2 m³/min (draining); Tank: H = 6 m, R = 3 m; h = 4 m at instant of interest. Required: dh/dt Solution: Step 1 — Similar triangles to relate r and h: r/h = R/H = 3/6 = 1/2 → r = h/2 Step 2 — Volume of cone in terms of h only: V = (1/3)πr^2h = (1/3)π(h/2)^2·h = πh^3/12 Step 3 — Differentiate with respect to t: dV/dt = (π/12)·3h^2·(dh/dt) = πh^2/4 · (dh/dt) Step 4 — Substitute known values (h = 4, dV/dt = −2): −2 = π(4)^2/4 · (dh/dt) −2 = π(16)/4 · (dh/dt) −2 = 4π(dh/dt) dh/dt = −2/(4π) = −1/(2π) ≈ −0.159 m/min ∴ The water level is dropping at 1/(2π) ≈ 0.159 m/min when h = 4 m.

Question Type

long_answer

Answer Structure

  • Step 1: Similar-triangles proportion r = h/2 [1 mark]
  • Step 2: Volume purely in h: V = πh^3/12 [1 mark]
  • Step 3: Differentiate w.r.t. t: dV/dt = πh^2/4 · dh/dt [1.5 marks]
  • Step 4: Substitute and solve dh/dt = −1/(2π) m/min [1 mark]
  • Step 5: State answer with magnitude and direction (dropping) and units [0.5 mark]

Scoring Breakdown

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct similar-triangles relation r = h/2

Marks

1

Criteria

Volume expressed as V = πh^3/12 in one variable

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct time-derivative dV/dt = (πh^2/4)(dh/dt)

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct substitution and dh/dt = −1/(2π) m/min

Marks

1

Criteria

Answer with correct units and interpretation (water level dropping)

Common Mark Deductions

  • Using V = (1/3)πR^2H with fixed R instead of variable r — must use similar triangles
  • Substituting h = 4 into V before differentiating
  • Forgetting the chain rule when differentiating h^3 → 3h^2(dh/dt)

Key Phrases To Include

  • similar triangles
  • r = h/2
  • V = πh^3/12
  • dV/dt = πh^2/4 · dh/dt
  • dh/dt = −1/(2π) m/min

Find the equation of the tangent line to the curve y = x^3 − 2x + 1 at the point where x = 2.

Marks

3

Topic

Tangent Line

Difficulty

medium

Template Id

T12

Examiner Tip

A 3-step presentation (point → slope → line equation) is the standard structure. Each step is a mark — never skip directly to the final equation.

Model Answer

Given: y = x^3 − 2x + 1; x₀ = 2 Required: Equation of tangent line at x = 2 Solution: Step 1 — Find the point (x₀, y₀): y(2) = (2)^3 − 2(2) + 1 = 8 − 4 + 1 = 5 Point: (2, 5) Step 2 — Find the slope m = y′(x₀): y′ = 3x^2 − 2 m = y′(2) = 3(4) − 2 = 12 − 2 = 10 Step 3 — Write tangent line equation (point-slope form): y − y₀ = m(x − x₀) y − 5 = 10(x − 2) y = 10x − 20 + 5 ∴ Tangent line: y = 10x − 15

Question Type

numerical

Answer Structure

  • Step 1: Compute y(2) = 5 to get the point (2, 5) [1 mark]
  • Step 2: Differentiate and evaluate y′(2) = 10 for the slope [1 mark]
  • Step 3: Apply point-slope form and simplify to y = 10x − 15 [1 mark]

Scoring Breakdown

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct point (2, 5) found by evaluating y(2)

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct derivative y′ = 3x^2 − 2 and slope m = 10 at x = 2

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct tangent line equation y = 10x − 15 in simplified form

Common Mark Deductions

  • Using the normal line formula (negative reciprocal slope) instead of tangent
  • Evaluating y at the wrong x value
  • Not substituting back to get y explicitly — leaving in point-slope form without simplifying

Key Phrases To Include

  • tangent line
  • slope = y′(x₀)
  • point-slope form
  • y − y₀ = m(x − x₀)
  • y = 10x − 15

Find the radius of curvature of y = x^2 at the origin (0, 0).

Marks

3

Topic

Radius of Curvature

Difficulty

medium

Template Id

T13

Examiner Tip

Write the full formula first before substituting — the formula alone earns the first mark. A clean substitution on the second line earns the second mark.

Model Answer

Given: y = x^2; Point: (0, 0) Required: Radius of curvature R Formula: R = [1 + (y′)^2]^(3/2) / |y″| Solution: Step 1 — First derivative: y′ = 2x → y′(0) = 0 Step 2 — Second derivative: y″ = 2 → y″(0) = 2 Step 3 — Substitute into curvature formula: R = [1 + (0)^2]^(3/2) / |2| R = [1]^(3/2) / 2 R = 1/2 ∴ R = 0.5 m (or 1/2 units, depending on the unit of x)

Question Type

numerical

Answer Structure

  • Step 1: State the radius of curvature formula R = [1 + (y′)^2]^(3/2) / |y″| [1 mark]
  • Step 2: Compute y′ = 2x → y′(0) = 0 and y″ = 2 [1 mark]
  • Step 3: Substitute and evaluate R = 1/2 [1 mark]

Scoring Breakdown

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct formula for radius of curvature stated explicitly

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct y′(0) = 0 and y″(0) = 2

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct R = 1/2

Common Mark Deductions

  • Forgetting the absolute value on y″ — must write |y″|
  • Applying the formula without evaluating y′ and y″ at the specific point
  • Writing R = [1 + (y′)^2]^(1/2) / |y″| — exponent 3/2 not 1/2

Key Phrases To Include

  • R = [1 + (y′)^2]^(3/2) / |y″|
  • y′ = 2x
  • y″ = 2
  • R = 1/2

Find the partial derivatives ∂z/∂x and ∂z/∂y for z = 3x^2y + 2xy^3 − 5y.

Marks

2

Topic

Partial Derivatives

Difficulty

medium

Template Id

T14

Examiner Tip

Always write 'treat y as constant' and 'treat x as constant' as notes beside each partial derivative — this communicates your understanding of partial differentiation to the examiner.

Model Answer

Given: z = 3x^2y + 2xy^3 − 5y Required: ∂z/∂x and ∂z/∂y Solution: For ∂z/∂x (treat y as constant): ∂z/∂x = 6xy + 2y^3 For ∂z/∂y (treat x as constant): ∂z/∂y = 3x^2 + 6xy^2 − 5 ∴ ∂z/∂x = 6xy + 2y^3; ∂z/∂y = 3x^2 + 6xy^2 − 5

Question Type

numerical

Answer Structure

  • Step 1: ∂z/∂x treating y constant → 6xy + 2y^3 [1 mark]
  • Step 2: ∂z/∂y treating x constant → 3x^2 + 6xy^2 − 5 [1 mark]

Scoring Breakdown

Marks

1

Criteria

∂z/∂x = 6xy + 2y^3 correct (y treated as constant)

Marks

1

Criteria

∂z/∂y = 3x^2 + 6xy^2 − 5 correct (x treated as constant)

Common Mark Deductions

  • Differentiating 5y with respect to x and writing −5 instead of 0
  • Treating both variables as functions when finding a partial derivative
  • Forgetting that 3x^2y differentiates to 3x^2 (not 6xy) with respect to y

Key Phrases To Include

  • treat y as constant
  • treat x as constant
  • ∂z/∂x = 6xy + 2y^3
  • ∂z/∂y = 3x^2 + 6xy^2 − 5

Differentiate y = ln(sin x) · e^(2x) using Product and Chain Rules.

Marks

3

Topic

Derivative Rules — Combined Rules

Difficulty

hard

Template Id

T15

Examiner Tip

For compound derivatives, use a three-label setup: u = ..., v = ..., u′ = ..., v′ = ... before writing the Product Rule. This structure is worth at least 1 method mark even if final simplification has a minor error.

Model Answer

Given: y = ln(sin x) · e^(2x) Required: dy/dx Solution: Let u = ln(sin x) and v = e^(2x) Step 1 — Differentiate u using Chain Rule: u′ = 1/sin(x) · cos(x) = cos(x)/sin(x) = cot(x) Step 2 — Differentiate v using Chain Rule: v′ = e^(2x) · 2 = 2e^(2x) Step 3 — Apply Product Rule y′ = u′v + uv′: y′ = cot(x) · e^(2x) + ln(sin x) · 2e^(2x) Step 4 — Factor e^(2x): y′ = e^(2x) [cot(x) + 2·ln(sin x)] ∴ dy/dx = e^(2x) [cot x + 2 ln(sin x)]

Question Type

numerical

Answer Structure

  • Step 1: Correct u′ = cot x using chain rule on ln(sin x) [1 mark]
  • Step 2: Correct v′ = 2e^(2x) using chain rule on e^(2x) [0.5 mark]
  • Step 3: Correct product rule application u′v + uv′ [1 mark]
  • Step 4: Simplified factored form [0.5 mark]

Scoring Breakdown

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct derivative of ln(sin x) = cot x using chain rule

Marks

1

Criteria

Correct product rule structure u′v + uv′ with correct terms

Marks

1

Criteria

Fully simplified answer e^(2x)[cot x + 2ln(sin x)]

Common Mark Deductions

  • d/dx[ln(sin x)] = 1/sin x without applying chain rule — missing cos x factor
  • Applying only product rule without chain rule on the inner functions
  • Not factoring e^(2x) — leaving answer unfully simplified

Key Phrases To Include

  • Product Rule
  • Chain Rule
  • d/dx[ln(sin x)] = cot x
  • d/dx[e^(2x)] = 2e^(2x)
  • y′ = e^(2x)[cot x + 2ln(sin x)]

Mark Wise Strategy

Dos

  • Write the correct formula in Leibniz or prime notation exactly as taught
  • State the answer with the correct SI unit if the question is numerical
  • Underline or box the final answer
  • Recall standard derivatives from memory (sin x → cos x, e^x → e^x, ln x → 1/x)

Donts

  • Do not write lengthy explanations — 1-mark items need direct answers
  • Do not leave units off numerical answers
  • Do not second-guess and cross out the correct answer

Marks

1

Strategy

These are recall or one-step computation items. Write the formula or definition directly. No working is needed unless the instructions say 'show working.' Precision matters — one wrong sign loses the mark.

Expected Length

1 line — formula or single calculated value

Time Allocation

1–2 minutes

Dos

  • State the rule or formula before substituting (earns the first mark)
  • Show substitution explicitly before simplifying
  • Write the final answer on a separate line, boxed or underlined
  • Label each derivative step clearly if differentiating term by term

Donts

  • Do not skip from the original function directly to the final answer — show at least one intermediate step
  • Do not mix up product rule (u′v + uv′) and quotient rule (u′v − uv′)/v^2
  • Do not forget units in engineering application problems

Marks

2

Strategy

Two marks typically mean two distinct steps or parts. Write 'Given' and 'Solution' headers. Show the rule you are using (Power Rule, Product Rule, Chain Rule) by name or formula before applying it. Partial credit is awarded for correct method even if arithmetic is wrong.

Expected Length

3–5 lines of working

Time Allocation

3–5 minutes

Dos

  • Number each major step so the examiner follows your logic
  • Show all differentiations in full before substituting known values
  • Verify your classification (max or min) explicitly using f″
  • Include a brief diagram sketch for tangent-line or curve-analysis questions

Donts

  • Do not skip the verification step (second-derivative test) — that is a guaranteed mark
  • Do not substitute numerical values before completing all symbolic differentiation in related-rates or related-variables problems
  • Do not omit the point coordinates when asked for extrema — the (x, y) pair is the complete answer

Marks

3

Strategy

Three-mark questions expect a structured 3-step solution — each step worth 1 mark. For limits: (1) check indeterminate form, (2) apply technique, (3) evaluate. For extrema: (1) f′, (2) f′=0, (3) classify. Write each step numbered or labelled to guide the examiner through your mark-earning logic.

Expected Length

6–10 lines of working in three identifiable steps

Time Allocation

6–8 minutes

Dos

  • Draw a labeled sketch — it earns the first mark and helps you set up equations correctly
  • Explicitly write and label the constraint equation and objective function
  • Differentiate the objective function symbolically before substituting any numerical values
  • Apply the second-derivative test and write the conclusion: 'f″ < 0 ∴ maximum confirmed'
  • State the final answer as a complete sentence with all values, dimensions, and units

Donts

  • Do not express the objective function in two variables — reduce to one variable using the constraint before differentiating
  • Do not omit the second-derivative test — it costs 1 mark in virtually every marking scheme
  • Do not substitute numerical values before differentiating in related-rates problems — this is an automatic zero for steps 3 and 4
  • Do not leave the answer as just 'x = 20' — state both variables and the optimised quantity
  • Do not rush past the diagram step — a 30-second sketch can unlock 3 marks of structured credit

Marks

5

Strategy

Five-mark problems (optimization or related rates) follow a strict five-step structure: (1) Draw and label diagram, (2) Write constraint, (3) Write objective function in one variable, (4) Differentiate and solve, (5) Verify with f″ and state the complete answer. Every step must be visible and labelled. Even if you cannot reach the final answer, the first three steps alone earn you 3 marks.

Expected Length

Full solution with 7–12 lines, diagram if applicable, complete final statement

Time Allocation

12–15 minutes

General Answer Writing Tips

  • Always write 'Given:' and 'Required/Find:' headers before the solution — this earns format marks and forces you to read the problem carefully.
  • State the relevant formula or rule immediately after 'Solution:' before substituting values; examiners reward formula identification even when arithmetic is wrong.
  • Show every differentiation step explicitly — write d/dx of each term separately on board-exam answer sheets so partial marks are awarded if you drop a sign.
  • Box or underline the final answer with its correct SI unit; a bare number without units loses the unit mark in applied problems.
  • In optimization problems, always verify that your critical point is a maximum or minimum using the second-derivative test and state 'f''(x) < 0 ∴ maximum' or 'f''(x) > 0 ∴ minimum' explicitly.
  • In related-rates problems, differentiate FIRST with respect to t, THEN substitute the given numerical values — substituting before differentiating is the single most common fatal error.
  • For L'Hopital's Rule applications, verify the indeterminate form (0/0 or ∞/∞) in writing before applying the rule; examiners check this step.
  • When asked for the radius of curvature, compute y' and y'' separately and labelled before substituting into the formula to avoid sign errors inside the radical.
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