Polynomial functions Lesson Plans

Students graph polynomial functions with a degree higher than two. In this algebra lesson, students identify the function represented by a graph and find the zeros and intercepts.

Learners solve problems with polynomial functions. In this algebra lesson, students are asked to identify different polynomial functions and perform operations using polynomials. They predict the long run behavior of the graphs.

Learners explore the concept of transforming polynomial functions.  In this transforming polynomial functions lesson, students enter a polynomial into their calculator.  Learners then shift the graph vertically and horizontally using the function menu.  Students examine how certain changes to the parent graph shift the function using tables and the graph of the function.

Students differentiate between polynomial functions. In this algebra lesson, students name the degree and terms of each function. They identify the shape of the graph each polynomial will make.

Students explore polynomial functions.  In this Algebra II lesson, students explore graphs of polynomial functions as classify the functions as linear, quadratic, cubic, or quartic.  Students determine the regression equation for each graph. 

Students identify the end behavior of polynomial functions. In this algebra lesson, students graph different polynomials functions and find a correlation between exponents and function behavior. They identify the effect the leading coefficient has on the graph.

Eleventh graders examine polynomial functions.  In this Algebra II lesson, 11th graders explore the end behavior of polynomial functions and the relationship between the end behavior and the function’s equation. 

Students focus on making connections among different classes of polynomial functions by exploring graphs of function. For this polynomial function lesson, students explain the relationship between linear factors of a polynomial function and the graph of the function. Students also sketch a parabola that is the product of the two linear expression and find the equations of lines that could be components of the polynomial.

Students explore and examine the continuity of three functions: horizontal zooming, polynomial function, and oscillating functions. They practice graphing functions, generating tables and navigating the zoom, vars and test menus on their graphing hand held calculators.

Students redesign bags and boxes for a company to help them save money. In this volume lesson, students redesign the packaging for a fictitious company. They write a polynomial function to represent the measurements of the bags. Students graph their results and identify the zeros of each graph.