Objectives
Understand the difference between a parameter and a variable and the additional information provided by a variable in the case of parametric equations.
Vocabulary
Parameter, variable
About the Lesson
Students begin by exploring the relationship between x and t. The parameter t is changed using a slider and x is naturally plotted along the x axis. The y variable and its relationship with t is then explored and finally the two elements brought together with the joint coordinate being plotted as t is changed. This relationship is then explored by changing the relationship between x, y and t, however the same end result is produced providing evidence that the parameter provides additional information that a standard Cartesian equation cannot.