← All labs · Logical Home Schooling Download the lab worksheet (PDF)
Graph Lab A graphing calculator for algebra, precalculus, and lab data
About this activityAlgebra 1, Algebra 2, Precalculus, and science labs · Grades 8–12

Learning outcomes

Students will be able to:

  • Graph linear, quadratic, absolute value, exponential, and trigonometric functions, and identify intercepts, maximums, and minimums.
  • Describe how the parameters a, h, and k stretch, reflect, and shift a graph.
  • Solve systems of equations by graphing, and explain what an intersection point means.
  • Use tables of values and plot lab data with a trend line.

Standards alignment

  • HSF-IF.C.7 CCSS: Graph functions expressed symbolically and show key features of the graph.
  • HSF-BF.B.3 CCSS: Identify the effect on the graph of replacing f(x) by f(x) + k, k·f(x), f(kx), and f(x + k).
  • HSA-REI.C.6 CCSS: Solve systems of linear equations exactly and approximately (for example, with graphs).
  • HSA-REI.D.11 CCSS: Explain why the x-coordinates of intersection points are solutions of f(x) = g(x), and find them using technology.
  • 8.EE.C.8 CCSS: Analyze and solve pairs of simultaneous linear equations.

Includes

A full graphing calculator with sliders, automatic key points, a table of values, nine ready-made examples, and a printable lab worksheet on transformations and systems. A teacher answer key is available from Logical Home Schooling.

No sign-in and no ads. Nothing students type is sent anywhere; progress is saved only in their own browser.

Equations

Sliders

Table of values

How to type equations
  • Lines and curves: y = 2x + 1, y = x^2 - 4, or just x^3
  • Letters other than x and y become sliders: y = a(x - h)^2 + k
  • Set a slider by typing a = 3
  • Vertical lines: x = 4
  • Points or lab data: (1, 2), (3, 5), (4, 7)
  • Functions: sqrt abs or |x|, sin cos tan, arcsin, log (base 10), ln, pi, e
  • Write 2x for 2 times x, and (x+1)(x-1) to multiply

Drag to move the graph. Scroll or pinch to zoom. Point at a curve to trace it, and tap a gray dot to label an intercept, intersection, maximum, or minimum.