Explore

Throughout Unit 5 and Unit 6, you have learned several different methods to solving quadratic equations. Have you thought to yourself, "How can this be applicable in real world situations?" There are many different instances when quadratic functions and equations can be used to model situations. Some examples include rockets launched, the maximum height of a baseball or other type of ball, profit of a company, and supply and demand.

In addition to exploring applications, you will also encounter equations in this lesson which have decimals. These types of equations might look difficult, but have no fear because you can solve these equations the same way you solve the equations that do not have decimals.

Explore Discussion

Go to 6.05 Exploring Height of a Baseball Discussion and post a response to the following problem.

A baseball player swings and hits a pop fly straight up in the air to the catcher. The height of the baseball in meters is t seconds after the hit is given by the quadratic function h(t) = -4.9t2 + 34.3t + 1. How long does it take the baseball to reach its maximum height? What is the maximum height obtained by the baseball?

After you post your response, look at your classmates' posts and respond to their work if you see any mistakes.

 

Following successful completion of this lesson, students will be able to:

  • Interpret parts of an expression, such as terms, factors, and coefficients.
  • Graph equations on coordinate axes with labels and scales.
  • Solve quadratic equations in one variable.
  • Identify key features of a graph of a quadratic function.
  • Sketch simple graphs of quadratic functions.
  • Interpret expressions that represent a quantity in terms of its context.
  • Create equations in one variable.
  • Create equations in two variables.
  • Solve quadratic equations in one variable.
  • Write a function that describes a relationship.
  • Determine an explicit expression, a recursive process, or steps for a calculation from a context.

The above objectives correspond with the following Alabama Course of Study: Algebra I Objectives: 7, 13b, 18, 28, 31a, 34, & 34a.

 

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