EngageNY
Analyzing a Verbal Description
What function will describe the insect population growth? Pairs or small groups work together to determine which type of function and specific function will model given scenarios. The scenarios differentiate between linear,...
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Analyzing a Data Set
Through discussions and journaling, classmates determine methods to associate types of functions with data presented in a table. Small groups then work with examples and exercises to refine their methods and find functions that work...
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Modeling a Context from Data (part 2)
Forgive me, I regress. Building upon previous modeling activities, the class examines models using the regression function on a graphing calculator. They use the modeling process to interpret the context and to make predictions...
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Extending the Domain of Sine and Cosine to All Real Numbers
Round and round we go! Pupils use reference angles to evaluate common sine and cosine values of angles greater than 360 degrees. Once they have mastered the reference angle, learners repeat the process with negative angles.
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Modeling a Context from a Verbal Description (part 2)
I got a different answer, are they both correct? While working through modeling problems interpreting graphs, the question of precision is brought into the discussion. Problems are presented in which a precise answer is needed and...
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Ferris Wheels—Using Trigonometric Functions to Model Cyclical Behavior
Have class members going in circles as they model the path of a Ferris Wheel using trigonometric functions. Building on the previous lesson in this series on transformations, learners use trigonometric functions to model wheels of...
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Graphing the Tangent Function
Help learners discover the unique characteristics of the tangent function. Working in teams, pupils create tables of values for different intervals of the tangent function. Through teamwork, they discover the periodicity, frequency, and...
EngageNY
Probability Rules (part 2)
Ensure your pupils are rule followers! Learners add the addition rule to the set of probability rules examined in the previous lesson plan. Problems require both the multiplication and addition rule.
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Irrational Exponents—What are 2^√2 and 2^π?
Extend the concept of exponents to irrational numbers. In the fifth installment of a 35-part module, individuals use calculators and rational exponents to estimate the values of 2^(sqrt(2)) and 2^(pi). The final goal is to show that the...
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Euler’s Number, e
Scholars model the height of water in a container with an exponential function and apply average rates of change to this function. The main attraction of the lesson plan is the discovery of Euler's number.
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The “WhatPower” Function
The Function That Shall Not Be Named? The eighth installment of a 35-part module uses a WhatPower function to introduce scholars to the concept of a logarithmic function without actually naming the function. Once pupils are...
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Comparing Linear and Exponential Models Again
Making connections between a function, table, graph, and context is an essential skill in mathematics. Focused on comparing linear and exponential relationships in all these aspects, this resource equips pupils to recognize and interpret...
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Graphing Quadratic Equations from the Vertex Form
Graphing doesn't need to be tedious! When pupils understand key features and transformations, graphing becomes efficient. This lesson connects transformations to the vertex form of a quadratic equation.
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Interpreting the Graph of a Function
Groups sort through NASA data provided in a graphic to create a graph using uniform units and intervals. Individuals then make connections to the increasing, decreasing, and constant intervals of the graph and relate these...
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Transformations of the Graphs of Logarithmic and Exponential Functions
Transform your instructional activity on transformations. Scholars investigate transformations, with particular emphasis on translations and dilations of the graphs of logarithmic and exponential functions. As part of this investigation,...
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Choosing a Model
There's a function for that! Scholars examine real-world situations to determine which type of function would best model the data in the 23rd installment of a 35-part module. It involves considering the nature of the data in addition to...
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Credit Cards
Teach adolescents to use credit responsibly. The 32nd installment of a 35-part module covers how to calculate credit card payments using a geometric series. It teaches terminology and concepts necessary to understand credit card debt.
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Buying a House
There's no place like home. Future home owners investigate the cost of buying a house in the 33rd installment of a 35-part module. They come to realize that the calculations are simply a variation of previous formulas involving car loans...
Mathematics Vision Project
Module 7: Modeling with Functions
The sky's the limit of what you create when combining functions! The module begins with a review of transformations of parent functions and then moves to combining different function types using addition, subtraction, and...
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Newton’s Law of Cooling
As part of an investigation of transformations of exponential functions, class members use Newton's Law of Cooling as an exponential model to determine temperature based on varying aspects. The resource makes comparisons between...
EngageNY
Stretching and Shrinking Graphs of Functions
Why is that graph wider? Pupils learn about stretching and shrinking graphs of square root, absolute value, cubic, and quadratic functions. They study both vertical and horizontal stretches and shrinks in addition to reflections.
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Transformations of the Quadratic Parent Function
Efficiently graph a quadratic function using transformations! Pupils graph quadratic equations by completing the square to determine the transformations. They locate the vertex and determine more points from a stretch or shrink and...
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Modeling with Quadratic Functions (part 2)
How many points are needed to define a unique parabola? Individuals work with data to answer this question. Ultimately, they determine the quadratic model when given three points. The concept is applied to data from a dropped...
West Contra Costa Unified School District
Slope-Intercept Sort
What's so special about slope? Pupils first match cards with slope and y-intercept to graphs of linear equations. They continue the lesson by matching equations in slope-intercept form to the same graphs.