Computing the Slope of the Isgur-Wise Function

We propose a method for evaluating the slope (and higher derivatives) of the Isgur-Wise function at the zero recoil point using lattice simulations. These derivatives are required for the extrapolation of the experimental data for $B\rightarrow D^*l\bar\nu$ decays to the zero recoil point, from which the $V_{cb}$ element of the CKM-matrix can be determined.