Develop conceptual knowledge of a quadratic equation and its solutions in your classes. The third algebra lesson in a series of four introduces learners to solving quadratic equations slowly. The first activity explores the zero product...

Eleventh graders explore quadratic equations.  In this Algebra II lesson, 11th graders use Geometer’s Sketchpad to explore the properties of quadratics and the connections with polynomials and linear equations.  The lesson is...

Inquiry-based learning and investigations form the basis of a deep understanding of quadratic functions in a very thorough unit plan.  Learners develop recursive and closed methods for representing real-life situations,...

Young scholars investigate the properties behind the quadratic equation. In this algebra lesson, students identify quadratic equation in the real world. They graph the parabola and identify the vertex and intercepts.

Math is all about finding solutions and connections you didn't expect! Young mathematicians often first discover nonlinear patterns when graphing quadratic functions. The lesson begins with the vocabulary of a quadratic graph and uses...

High schoolers investigate parabolas and their equations.  In this parabolas and their equations lesson, students graph quadratic equations on their graphing calculator.  High schoolers find the axis of symmetry of a...

How many points are needed to define a unique parabola? Individuals work with data to answer this question. Ultimately, they determine the quadratic model when given three points. The concept is applied to data from a dropped...

Tackle a common misconception using a performance task. Dividing by a variable to eliminate a variable may seem like a good idea, but simplifying the variable eliminates solutions as well. Learners develop algebraic and graphical support...

Use context to explain the importance of the key features of a graph. When context is introduced, the domain and range have meaning, which enhances understanding. Pupils use application questions to explore the key features of the graph...

The structure of an expression is a descriptive feature. Learners build a solid understanding of quadratic functions using an analysis of expressions in different forms. The seventh module in a series of nine includes 12 lessons...

Need a real scenario to compare functions? This instructional activity has it all! Through application, individuals model using different types of functions. They analyze each in terms of the context using the key features of the...

From Pythagorean triples to the unit circle. Learners use the Pythagorean Theorem to find Pythagorean triples and then relate their work to the unit circle in a fun algebra project. Their discovery that x^2+y^2 is always equal to one on...

Far out — plan a trip to space! Aspiring mathematicians steer a space vehicle through an asteroid field, calculate currency exchanges to buy provisions, and determine placement of charges to blow up asteroids. Along the way, they learn...

Nothing better than the original! Help your class understand the relationship of an inverse function to its original function. Learners study the connection between the original function and its inverse through algebraic properties,...

This comprehensive unit investigates transformations of quadratics, having learners follow "Optima" through the development and growth of her quilting business. Deftly weaving the story into the mathematical mechanics, the unit gives...

Read between the curves ... quadratic curves! Young scholars analyze the graphs of two quadratic functions by writing their own function whose outputs are between the two given. They then consider intersecting quadratic functions and...

Make the most of your prom—with math! Pupils write and use a quadratic model to determine the optimal price of prom tickets. After determining the costs associated with the event, learners use a graph to analyze the break even point(s).

It's all in the numbers! Create a mathematical model to analyze a number game and develop a winning strategy. Using a given numerical pattern, scholars write an expression to model the scenario. They then interpret the pattern of the...

An informative module highlights eight polynomial concepts. Learners work with polynomial functions, expressions, and equations through graphing, simplifying, and solving. 

Undo a function to create a new one. The inverse of a function does just that. An inquiry-based lesson examines the result of reversing the variables of a function, beginning with linear patterns and advancing to quadratic and...

Explore linear programming on a website game. Partners solve a real-world problem by setting up an objective function and a linear inequality. They graph their results on chart paper and also using a calculator before presenting their...

Weight is a function of the distance from sea level. Learners explore the many implications of this fact in an inquiry-based task. Given the function, pupils answer questions before manipulating the function to rewrite the distance...

Young scholars investigate parabolas as the shape of a telescopic lens.  In this Algebra I/Algebra II lesson, students explore the relationship between the coefficients of a quadratic function and the shape and position of the...

Don't let a little challenge get between your pupils and their learning! Scholars compare two absolute value functions to recognize patterns and use them to build their own functions with outputs that are between the given. They then...