Radical Graphs Matter

The student(s) will be given a radical function to graph by hand on graph paper. The student is to divide their paper in half and then in half again, this will give them creases to draw lines to divide their paper into four parts. In the top left quadrant of the paper, students can draw and label an x-y coordinate plane. Students can then make a table of values by plugging values in for x and finding y (or f(x)) of the first function. Then, they will plot those points (ordered pairs) on the coordinate plane. After they have plotted four or five points, they should connect the points. Then they can input the function into their graphing calculators or Desmos (the digital resource) and confirm that they have graphed the function correctly. After students confirm that they have graphed the function correctly, they can state the domain and range of the function. They should also talk about the end behavior of the function, as well as the solutions of the function. They can partner talk or this can be written down and turned in to the teacher. After the student has graphed one function correctly, they can then use the other three sections of their paper to graph other functions for practice or different variations of radical functions.

Desmos Instructions:  Type in the URL: www.desmos.com. This will take you to the website. Click on start graphing to open the graphing calculator. Type in the function and Desmos will graph the function. You can click on the drop-down arrow in the bottom left of your screen to access the keyboard. On the right side, you will find special features under the functions tab. You can get to letters by clicking the ABC button. There is no need to type in the y= or f(x)  part, just the function part.