Author: Jenny Polm
Last saved by: Samantha Veneruso
Company: HP

Calculus Applications of Optimization Assignment
Author:  Jennifer Polm, Mathematics
Possible Usage:  Applied Calculus, Calculus I, or Multivariable Calculus
How is this an Integrative Learning Assignment?   AAC&U Integrative Learning Value Rubric:  Connections to Experience, Connections to Discipline, Transfer
Prompt:  We have been studying how to use calculus to solve optimization problems.   As we have discussed, optimization techniques have useful applications in nearly any field.  I would like you to write a 2 – 3 page essay in which you reflect on problems you have come across, or could foreseeably come across, both in your other college courses and in your future career that require or would benefit from the use of optimization techniques.  
Content Requirements:
•	Describe a situation or problem discussed in one of your (non-math) past or current college courses that requires or could benefit from the use of optimization techniques.
o	Identify the course and when you took it (or that you are currently taking it).
o	Describe the problem in paragraph form.
o	Identify the function you would be optimizing and why. (Note: You do not have to write a function, simply identify “a height function”, “a cost function”, etc.
o	Identify the kinds of constraints that might come into play.
o	Explain why optimization techniques would be beneficial in this situation and how a person working in that field might act upon your findings.

•	Describe a situation or problem that you might run into in your future career that would require or benefit from the use of optimization techniques.  
o	Identify your intended future career.  
o	Describe the problem in paragraph form.
o	Identify the function you would be optimizing and why. (Note: You do not have to write a function, simply identify “a height function”, “a cost function”, etc.
o	Identify the kinds of constraints that might come into play.
o	Explain why optimization techniques would be beneficial in this situation and how you might act upon your findings.
Formatting Requirements: 
•	Write a formal essay including an introduction, body paragraphs describing one problem from another college course and one problem from your future career, and a conclusion.  
•	Display college-level writing that has been checked for spelling and grammatical errors.