Activity Overview
This activity can either be done by the students on TI-Nspire handhelds or this can be teacher directed on the overhead TI-Nspire (or using the computer software). This activity explores the characteristics of exponential functions. Students are introduced to the concept of a limit and end behavior. They also will investigate stretching, shrinking, and refections of the exponential function.
Before the Activity
Students should be familiar with stretching and shrinking of functions (transformations). Also, if the concept of limit is to be used, they should have some exposure first to the notation for a limit.
During the Activity
The TI-Nspire allows ONLY the natural exponential function to be transformed. Participants need to be familiar with how to do transformations on the TI-Nspire
The attached worksheet should be used to lead the students through the activity.
After the Activity
Have the students graph the 5 exponential functions in the handout.