Sketching the Graph of an Equation
by Mike Dartez, mdartez@vrml.k12.la.us

Content Area(s)
Math

Grade Level(s)
8, 9, 

Overview
Using an Excel Spreadsheet and Notepad, students will use the handheld to obtain ordered pairs for several equations in the slope/intercept form and then sketch the graph of those equations. The students will then observe the graphs and their equations to see if any rules can be identified.

Software
Sheet To Go
Word To Go
NotePad

Technology

Objectives
TLW:
1. Use a spreadsheet to collect data for graphing
2. Sketch the graph of equation on the Cartesian Coordinate System
3.Make comparisons of several equations and their graphs and identify rules which determine what an equation’s graph will look like
4. Use a word processor to describe their findings

Procedures
1. Beam spreadsheet containing several equations.
2. Have students determine ordered pairs for each equation using 0,1, -1 as replacement set.
3. Working in pairs, one student opens Notepad, while the other has the spreadsheet open, and graphs each equation.
4. Students compare graph to its equation and identifies such this as the effect of positive and negative slope and the y-intercept.
5. Students open Word to Go and decribe their findings.

Other Supporting Material
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Submitted on: 11/29/2004 2:41:12 PM