Algebra II
Activity:
Constant of Variation
Posted on Feb 25, 2010
Topic: Equations
Students explore how the constant of variation, k, affects the graph of direct and inverse variations.
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Activity Key Steps:
In this activity, students explore the effects of k, the constant of variation. They will first use the slider to change k and observe how the direct variation graph changes.
For the application problem about direct variation, students will use a graph of the function and a point on the graph to determine the amount of money the employee will make for a certain number of hours.
Students will investigate the effect of k on the graph of an inverse variation by dragging the slider. Also shown on the screen are a point, which can be moved, and the product of the x- and y-coordinates of this point.
In the application problem, students will determine the amount per hour a salaried employee will make for a certain number of hours worked.
As an extension or homework problems, students will write an equation for a direct or indirect variation function given the graph and a labeled point on the graph.