OK. I accept much of what you say. But it's perhaps not a coincidence that calculus and classical mechanics were invented at the same time in history - indeed,

OK. I accept much of what you say. But it's perhaps not a coincidence that calculus and classical mechanics were invented at the same time in history - indeed, both were advanced significantly by the same person. Classical mechanics and calculus are two sides of the same coin. Fundamental Theorem of Calculus: <=1670 Principia Mathematica: >=1687 So which order do you prefer to teach them? In truth, HS math students do learn about differential equations, and easily have the capacity to apply them numerically. Some historical context and a little creativity in teaching could greatly help the understanding of both and benefit many students.