Algebra II
Activity:
Introduction to Absolute Value
Posted on Oct 15, 2009
Topic: Absolute Value Equations
Students explore absolute values using a number line, plot points to graph y = |x|, and use sliders to perform transformations with absolute value functions.
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Activity Key Steps:
In the first part of this activity, students will use a number line to understand the concept of absolute value as the distance from zero. Then they will enter positive and negative x values into a spreadsheet, which graphs the points (x, abs(x)).
For the second part of the activity, students will investigate the effects of the variables a, c, and d on the graph of the function, y = a|x| and y = |x + d| + c.
Students will check their understanding of Problem 2 by determining the equation of a given graph. These matching exercises are self-check.
There are two optional extensions. The first is a short extension that explores the effects of the variables a, b, c, and d of the function y = a|bx + d| + c all on one graph. The other is a longer extension that explores graphing absolute value function and piecewise functions.