Introduction

Quadratic functions are used to analyze data and predict what will happen using other numbers. This section will take data and find a quadratic function to best fit that data.

Let's start by applying parabolas to a game you may have heard of. You'll do this using Geogebra: Parabola Constuction with Angry Birds.

Lesson Objectives

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

  • Find a quadratic function given the vertex and a point
  • Find a quadratic equation given the x-intercepts and a point
  • Use the regression capabilities of a calculator to find a quadratic model for data.

Essential Questions

  • How does the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra help us analyze and graph polynomials?

Enduring Understandings

  • Students will understand how to use the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra to find roots or zeroes of a polynomial.

The above objectives correspond with the Alabama Course of Study: Precalculus standards: 24, 26.