Piecewise Function Teacher Resources

Employ proportional reasoning and algebraic understanding to a determine a real world math quandary. Intel has created a project based unit to engage learners in using algebra to describe the physical world. They will create equations,...

Solve a real-life problem using function-building skills. Presented with an open-ended question, scholars complete a checklist to create and justify a solution in an interesting algebra project. The checklist asks for justifications of...

Ramp up a design challenge. Class members design ramps to meet a client's requirements to comply with the American with Disabilities Act. The scholars create a scaled graph of their designs and determine the equations of the lines on...

In this linear function learning exercise, students use Euler's method to approximate a solution to an initial value problem. This two-page learning exercise contains three multi-step problems.

Model situations with graphs. In the fourth installment of a 16-part module, scholars learn to qualitatively analyze graphs of piecewise linear functions in context. They learn to sketch graphs for different situations.

Collaborative groups utilize their knowledge of parent functions and transformations to determine the equations associated with graphs. The graph is then related to the scenario it represents. 

The longer you wait to try the new pizza place, the more it's going to cost you! This real-world problem about how the cost of pizza varies with respect to time is a good example of how piecewise functions are used to describe...

Perfect as a review guide, this instructional activity provides a range of questions focusing on functions. Topics include composing functions, transformations, domains, and polynomials. Also included are corresponding worksheets...

Looking for an application for step functions? This activity uses real data to examine piecewise step functions. Groups create a list of data from varying scenarios and create a model to use to make recommendations to increase...

Don't think this lesson is for Mom and Dad; parent functions are all for your high schoolers. Flip through a presentation with a focus slide on each type of graph and its characteristics. Some examples are included but the...

There is more to the eye than just a graph on paper. The presentation shows three different piecewise graphs and asks an assortment of questions. The resource includes topics such as domain and range, intervals of increasing and...

Make an informed decision when choosing a medical insurance provider. An engaging lesson asks your classes to write piecewise models to represent the cost of different medical plans. The project-based learning activity is a variation of...

Continue a study of calculus by using a slideshow to introduce the concept of continuity. After defining the term, the presentation provides examples of functions that are discontinuous and introduces different types...

What are some basic features of functions? By looking at functions in graphs, tables, and equations, pupils compare them and find similarities and differences in general features. They use attributes such as intervals of...

Explore linear and nonlinear models to help your class build their function skills. In a continuation of the previous lesson, learners continue to analyze and sketch functions that model real-world situations. They progress from linear...

Learn how to represent functions in multiple ways. Learners analyze functions as equations, graphs, and verbal descriptions. The analysis includes intercepts, behavior, domain, and range. The module of seven lessons makes up the third...

Functions help make the world make more sense. Individuals model real-world situations with functions. They match a variety of contexts to different function types to finish a helpful resource.

Collaborative pairs develop functions that model a graph from a context using the modeling cycle. They then analyze their function models in order to answer questions about the scenario.

Going up and down makes a more exciting ride. Pupils recall what they know about continuity and limits of functions. Working in groups, classmates design a skateboard ramp that meets a given set of criteria, using at least three...

Rates of change can be a slippery slope. The resource makes the connection between the rate of change and the slope of a line. It continues on to provide examples of how to interpret the slope and the y-intercepts of linear equations...

Pupils use graphs to analyze two pricing schemes for postcards. After determining which is the best deal, individuals determine what is wrong with the other pricing structures and explain their thinking.

Represent the ups and downs of a bank account. The two-part task points out that some types of graphs may better show discrete functions than others. Pupils analyze a graph on how well it represents the situation. They develop their own...

Getting the best pick of the apples depends on where to pick. The short assessment presents a situation in which class members must analyze a real-world situation to determine the cost of picking apples. The pricing structures resemble...

Explore business problems through mathematical analysis. The task has individuals write and graph a linear system to determine the best business model. They use their models to answer a series of questions that help to make a conclusion.