Algebra II
Activity:
Parabola Construction
Posted on Apr 16, 2009
Topic: Conics & Polar Coordinates
Students construct parabolas using the focus and directrix definition. They also explore how the location of the focus with respect to the directrix affects the shape of the parabola.
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Activity Key Steps:
Students will use the given focus and directrix and the definition of a parabola to construct their own parabola. They will need to justify the steps followed to complete the construction.
An extension problem has students explore how the location of the focus with respect to the directrix affects the shape of the parabola.