Illustrative Mathematics
Introduction to Linear Functions
Introduce your algebra learners to linear and quadratic functions. Learners compare the differences and relate them back to the equations and graphs. Lead your class to discussions on the properties of a function or a constant slope...
Curated OER
A Sum of Functions
Collaborative learners will see the geometric addition of functions by graphing the sum of two graphed curves on the same coordinate plane. This task then naturally flows into giving learners the algebraic representation of the curves...
Mathematics Vision Project
Features of Functions
What are some basic features of functions? By looking at functions in graphs, tables, and equations, pupils compare them and find similarities and differences in general features. They use attributes such as intervals of...
Illustrative Mathematics
Identifying Exponential Functions
Class members have the opportunity to quickly change the variables of an exponential graphs through the use of sliders on Desmos. Four graphs are given and young mathematicians, through the use of the graphing app, can discover which...
EngageNY
Modeling with Inverse Trigonometric Functions 1
Where should I stand to get the best view? Pupils use inverse trigonometric functions to determine the horizontal distance from an object to get the best view. They round out the lesson by interpreting their answers within context.
Illustrative Mathematics
Identifying Graphs of Functions
Match the graph with its function in an exercise that focuses on variations of the graph of y = e^x. Learners are given four graphs on the same set of axes and four functions, all involving e^x. The task is to match each...
Curated OER
Do Two Points Always Determine a Linear Function II?
Learners analyze the difference between the slope intercept and standard forms of a line in this task. Given two general points using letters they explore linear functions and linear equations.
Curated OER
Building a Quadratic Function Form
Comparing the movement of graphs geometrically when small changes are made to the parent function motivates this collaborative discussion on the transformations of functions to their various forms. Vertical and horizontal shifts due to...
Mathematics Assessment Project
Representing Trigonometric Functions
Discover the classic example of periodicity: Ferris wheels. Young mathematicians learn about trigonometric functions through Ferris wheels. They match functions to their graphs and relate the functions to the context.
Mathematics Vision Project
Linear and Exponential Functions
Provide a continuous progression to linear and exponential functions. Pupils continue to work with the discrete functions known as sequences to the broader linear and exponential functions. The second unit in a series of nine provides...
Mathematics Assessment Project
Representing Quadratic Functions Graphically
Sometimes being different is an advantage. An engaging activity has scholars match cards with quadratic functions in various forms. Along the way, they learn about how each form highlights key features of quadratic functions.
EngageNY
Modeling a Context from Data (part 2)
Forgive me, I regress. Building upon previous modeling activities, the class examines models using the regression function on a graphing calculator. They use the modeling process to interpret the context and to make predictions...
Illustrative Mathematics
Building an Explicit Quadratic Function by Composition
Use equivalent expressions to reveal information about their graphs. Pupils verify that two quadratic functions are equivalent. By comparing the two expressions, they determine the vertex, the zeros, the y-intercept, and the...
Illustrative Mathematics
Building a General Quadratic Function
Rewrite a quadratic function to easily see the transformations involved. The instructional task takes a general quadratic function and rewrites it into a form that shows the translations and scaling of the parent quadratic function. The...
Curated OER
Yam in the Oven
Your vegetable eaters will practice function notation statement interpretation in this short task. These few exercises will bring out misconceptions students may have about function notation as well.
Illustrative Mathematics
Chicken and Steak, Variation 2
Many organizations put on barbecues in order to make money. In a real-world math problem, the money allotted to purchase steak and chicken at this barbecue is only one hundred dollars. It is up to your potential chefs to figure out how...
Curated OER
Exponential Functions
Your algebra learners analyze and interpret the general form and the graph of two functions. The increase of the function due to the multiplicative factor is emphasized.
Radford University
Mathematical Modeling: Lessons 2-3
Not all functions are created equal. Pupils apply regression analysis using polynomial, exponential, and logarithmic functions to investigate the relationship between variables and to decide which function would be best to model the...
Curated OER
Making Money and Spreading the Flu!
Paper folding, flu spreading in a school, bacteria growth, and continuously compounded interest all provide excellent models to study exponential functions. This is a comprehensive resource that looks at many different aspects of...
EngageNY
Linear and Nonlinear Expressions in x
Linear or not linear — that is the question. The lesson plan has class members translate descriptions into algebraic expressions. They take the written expressions and determine whether they are linear or nonlinear based upon the...
EngageNY
Which Real Number Functions Define a Linear Transformation?
Not all linear functions are linear transformations, only those that go through the origin. The third lesson in the 32-part unit proves that linear transformations are of the form f(x) = ax. The lesson plan takes another look at examples...
Illustrative Mathematics
Tides
A very simple example of a functional relationship between depth of water and time is shown here. In fact, it might be more useful to use a coastal tide book to better illustrate this real-world experience. Pupils are to count the number...
Illustrative Mathematics
Riding by the Library
Draw a graph that shows the qualitative features of a function that has been described verbally. Make sure learners understand where time is zero and the distance is zero. It may take them some time to understand this concept, so working...
EngageNY
Analyzing a Data Set
Through discussions and journaling, classmates determine methods to associate types of functions with data presented in a table. Small groups then work with examples and exercises to refine their methods and find functions that work...