IB Math AI Worksheet SL 5.3 - The Power Rule

This IB Maths AI SL 5.3 – The Power Rule resource develops students’ fluency with one of the core differentiation techniques in calculus. Learners revisit the definition of the derivative as an instantaneous rate of change before focusing on the power rule as a practical method for differentiating polynomial functions efficiently. The material links algebraic differentiation to graphical behaviour and real-world rates of change, strengthening conceptual and procedural understanding together.

Structured sections guide students from the formal meaning of the derivative to applying the power rule for functions of the form (x^n), followed by differentiation of full polynomial expressions. Worked examples model the process clearly, and practice sets progress from straightforward power-rule questions to evaluating derivatives at specific values. Students also use derivative signs and sign charts to determine where functions are increasing or decreasing, reinforcing the connection between calculus notation and function behaviour.