Activity Overview
In the first part of this activity, students graph a quadratic function that models the shape of a bridge trestle. They then solve the related quadratic equation by completing the square, recording each step as they complete it. This list of steps is then generalized to deduce the quadratic formula. In the second part of the activity, students store the formula in their handhelds, compare its results with those of the nSolve command, and use it to solve several other quadratic equations.