Illustrative Mathematics
Graphs of Power Functions
There are parent functions, and then there are parent functions with a really interesting way to explore them. High schoolers are asked to graph different combinations of parent functions together and determine the point of intersection....
EngageNY
Stretching and Shrinking Graphs of Functions
Why is that graph wider? Pupils learn about stretching and shrinking graphs of square root, absolute value, cubic, and quadratic functions. They study both vertical and horizontal stretches and shrinks in addition to reflections.
EngageNY
Exploring the Symmetry in Graphs of Quadratic Functions
Math is all about finding solutions and connections you didn't expect! Young mathematicians often first discover nonlinear patterns when graphing quadratic functions. The instructional activity begins with the vocabulary of a quadratic...
EngageNY
Translating Graphs of Functions
If you know one, you know them all! Parent functions all handle translations the same. This lesson examines the quadratic, absolute value, and square root functions. Pupils discover the similarities in the behavior of the graphs when...
West Contra Costa Unified School District
Graphing Exponential Functions
Once you know how to graph y = b^x, the sky's the limit. Young mathematicians learn to graph basic exponential functions and identify key features, and then graph functions of the form f(x) = ab^(x – h) + k from the function f(x) = b^x.
Shodor Education Foundation
Multi-Function Data Flyer
Explore different types of functions using an interactive lesson. Learners enter functions and view the accompanying graphs. They can choose to show key features or adjust the scale of the graph.
Radford University
Function Family Fun
It's time for a family reunion—function families, that is. Pupils first review different types of parent functions. They then see how to apply transformations to graphs and learn how to select the most appropriate type of function to...
Curated OER
Lesson 2-5: Absolute Value Functions and Graphs
What is absolute value? What is an absolute value function? Emerging mathematicians solve equations containing variables inside an absolute value sign. They graph each function on a coordinate plane and identify the maximum and minimum...
EngageNY
Analyzing a Graph
Collaborative groups utilize their knowledge of parent functions and transformations to determine the equations associated with graphs. The graph is then related to the scenario it represents.
West Contra Costa Unified School District
Graphing Family of Functions
Functions have families, too. Learners first graph the parent functions for linear, quadratic, and cubic functions, and then use vertical translations to graph families of functions.
EngageNY
Transformations of the Quadratic Parent Function
Efficiently graph a quadratic function using transformations! Pupils graph quadratic equations by completing the square to determine the transformations. They locate the vertex and determine more points from a stretch or shrink and...
Balanced Assessment
Writing and Sketching Resource
Picture this—the class creates pictures using functions. Here, learners build functions to model specific graphic criteria. They use their knowledge of parent functions and transformations to create the perfect function.
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...
West Contra Costa Unified School District
Graph Square Root and Cube Root Functions
Scholars first learn to graph square root and cube root functions by creating a table of values. They then learn how to graph functions from transformation of the graphs of the parent square root and cube root functions.
Curated OER
Building Functions
Pupils determine equations that match the graphs of transformations and the parent quadratic function. The resource requires class members to attend to precision and think abstractly.
West Contra Costa Unified School District
Shifting Linear Equations in Function Notation
Time for a shift in thinking! Learners examine translations of linear functions. They use function notation to describe the translation and make connections to the graph.
Concord Consortium
Intersections I
One, two, or zero solutions—quadratic systems have a variety of solution possibilities. Using the parent function and the standard form of the function, learners describe the values of a, b, and c that produce each solution type. They...
Curated OER
Investigating Transformations Of Parent Functions
Students identify the basic transformations of parent functions. They use their graphing calculator to create a transformation booklet by folding a sheet of computer paper in half and stapling along the folded edge.
West Contra Costa Unified School District
Exploring Quadratics and Graphs
Young mathematicians first graph a series of quadratic equations, and then investigate how various parts of the equation change the graph of the function in a predictable way.
EngageNY
Graphing Quadratic Equations from the Vertex Form
Graphing doesn't need to be tedious! When pupils understand key features and transformations, graphing becomes efficient. This activity connects transformations to the vertex form of a quadratic equation.
Texas Instruments
Let's Play Ball with Families of Graphs
Learners explore quadratic equations in this Algebra II lesson. They investigate families of quadratic functions by graphing the parent function and family members on the same graph. Additionally, they write the equation of the parabola...
EngageNY
Graphing Cubic, Square Root, and Cube Root Functions
Is there a relationship between powers and roots? Here is a lesson that asks individuals to examine the graphical relationship. Pupils create a table of values and then graph a square root and quadratic equation. They repeat the process...
Concord Consortium
Intersections II
How many intersections can two absolute value functions have? Young scholars consider the question and then develop a set of rules that describe the number of solutions a given system will have. Using the parent function and the standard...
Concord Consortium
Graphical Depictions
Parent functions and their combinations create unique graphical designs. Learners explore these relationships with a progressive approach. Beginning with linear equations and inequalities and progressing to more complex functions,...