In my post Tutorial 4: Graphs and Sliders, we learned how to use the slider in investigating graphs of the form y = mx + b. In this tutorial, we are going to use sliders to investigate the graph of the from y = a(x – h)2+ k, where a, h and k can be any real number. We will first input the values of a, h and k in the input box before creating the sliders.
To do this, first we are going to assign temporary values for a, h and k in the input box, then create a slider for each of them. After creating a slider, we enter the equation y = a(x – h)2+ k in the input box to graph our function. You may want to look at our expected output here.
Instructions
- Open GeoGebra.
- Enter the following equations in the input box: a = 1, h = 1 and h = 1 in the Input box and press the ENTER key on your keyboard after typing each equation. Observe that the equations appear in the Free Objects section of the Algebra window.
- Right click each equation and click Show Object. Notice that the sliders appear in your drawing box.
- Type the equation y = a*(x – h)^2 + k, the press the ENTER key. If you have typed the equation correctly, a graph should appear in your drawing pad.
Figure 1 - Equations are entered in GeoGebra using the Input box.
Figure 2 - Sliders are made by right-clicking each equation and pressing the Show Object option in the context menu.
Q1: Click the Move button and move the small circle on your slider. What do you observe?
Q2: What are the effects of the parameters a, h and k to the graph of the function y = a*(x – h)^2 + k?
Stumble It!
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is it possible to solve and graph inequalities and systems of inequalities on GeoGebra? I’ve tried using standard notation but it doesn’t seem to take. any suggestions?
it is possible. try GeoGebra 4.0 Beta.
It’s very helpful how you teach us different ways to do the same task in different tutorials. For example, in the last one we created sliders using the slider button, but in this one it was by right clicking on the initial value equation. Thanks!
You’re welcome Michelle H.