Algebra II: Exploring Power Functions 1

Objectives

• Students will be able to describe the end behaviors of functions of the form y = xⁿ where n is a positive integer
• Students will be able to justify why the three points (–1, –1), (0, 0), and (1, 1) are common to any function of the form y = xⁿ where n is an even integer
• Students will be able to justify why the three points (–1, –1), (0, 0), and (1, 1) are common to any function of the form y = xⁿ where n is an odd integer
• Students will be able to identify the symmetry in even and odd power functions and describe the line or point of symmetry

Vocabulary

• end behavior
• symmetry
• power/exponent

About the Lesson

This lesson involves examining the graphs of power functions with even and odd positive integer exponents. End behavior, key points, and symmetry are explored. As a result, students will:

• Be able to describe the shape, end behavior, and key points of power functions with positive integer exponents.
• Be able to describe the symmetry of even and odd power functions.