Education Technology

Graphing Families of Quadratic Functions

Subject Area
Math: Algebra II: Quadratics
Math: Algebra II: Transformations
Level
9-12
Activity Time
2 Days
Software
TI-SmartView™
TI Calculator
TI-84 series
Other Materials
Demonstration of the Transfrm app will be performed using the SmartView emulator, LCD projector and interactive whiteboard (Smart Board). Students may operate the SmartView emulator from the whiteboard, or connect to an overhead LCD Viewscreen panel, to share their findings.
Resource Types
Lessons

Graphing Families of Quadratic Functions

Activity Overview

Students will use the Transfrm app to explore families of quadratic functions. Generalization about the effect of a, b and c coefficients have on the shape and position of the graph in general form, and the effect of a, h, and k in vertex form, will be summarized by students in their own words. Students will work in groups, with instructor assistance and guidance, using the SmartView emulator and a Smart Board to demonstrate graphs and share findings.

Before the Activity

Pre-activity introduction to the Transfrm app is necessary. In Algebra 2, this can be accomplished by using the Transfrm app to work with translations of absolute value functions or linear graphs, in earlier lessons. The Transformation Graphing guidebook is a useful tool in guiding students in use of the Transfrm app.

During the Activity

Students work individually or in groups, exploring the problems presented on the "Graphing Families of Quadratic Functions" worksheet. Each student must summarize, in his/her own words, the effect various coefficients have on the shape, orientation and direction of the graph of each parabola.

After the Activity

Review student answers:

  • As a class, discuss questions that appeared to be more challenging
  • Re-teach concepts as necessary
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    Subject Area
    Math: Algebra II: Quadratics
    Math: Algebra II: Transformations
    Level
    9-12
    Activity Time
    2 Days
    Software
    TI-SmartView™
    TI Calculator
    TI-84 series
    Other Materials
    Demonstration of the Transfrm app will be performed using the SmartView emulator, LCD projector and interactive whiteboard (Smart Board). Students may operate the SmartView emulator from the whiteboard, or connect to an overhead LCD Viewscreen panel, to share their findings.
    Resource Types
    Lessons
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