Activity Overview
What do changes in the a, b, and c values of the quadratic equation in standard form cause? Students at all of levels of high school and college math struggle to understand the effect of changing the a, b or c values of the quadratic equation ax2+bx+c=0.
This activity really helps students visualize the effect of changes in a,b, and c.
Before the Activity
This investigation offers many possible extensions. Algebra II students are the ideal audience for this activity.
As always teachers should spend some time (10-15 minutes) practicing this technique with handheld before presenting it to students.
During the Activity
This investigation is meant to begin teacher-led. Students will be able to gradual investigate on their own as the activity progresses.