Algebra II: Parabolic Paths

Objectives

• Students will be able to identify the effect of changing h and k on the graph of the quadratic function in the vertex form y = a(x - h)² + k.
• Students will be able to identify the effect of a and b on the graph of the quadratic function in the standard form y = ax² + bx + c.

Vocabulary

• parabolic
• quadratic
• parameters
• vertex form of a quadratic equation
• standard form of a quadratic equation

About the Lesson

This lesson involves manipulating the equation of a quadratic function so that its graph passes through a particular point. As a result, students will:

• Use sliders to change the parameters in the quadratic equation and observe the changes to the graph.
• Use sliders to generate new random problems to repeat the exercise and consolidate the deductions.