The Quintessence of Quadratics (Q2 )
Overview
During this time we learned about quadratics in Math. We mainly learned about vertex and standard form and how to convert both of them. We had 25 worksheets that were about quadratics. Throughout these worksheets it took me awhile to understand but after sitting down with other students and asking Dr. Drew questions I finally understood the worksheet's.
Exploring the Vertex Form of the Quadratic Equation
When we started looking at parabolas the students learned that one way an equation can be expressed is by vertex form. This was the first way we learned how to do it. y = a(x-h)2+k is the form we used. A,H, and K in this form affect where and the shape of the parabolas. We used Desmos a online graphing calculator to help us with the worksheets. The number one equation we used in part one of the Parabolas and Equations packet is y+ax^2. It was used to show the student how it effected the width of the parabola. With Desmos it allowed me to the (a) that would go from large to small. It also affected the way the parabola looked on the graph. The shape would change. If the (a) has a (+) in front of it the parabola concaves upward. If its an (a) with a (-) in front of the (a) it concaves downward. For the second Parabola packet students learned how the (k) affects the highest point on the parabola and the lowest point. We learned the (Y) coordinate is equal to (K) because it controls the (X) on the vertex. The next thing we did was gather all the work we did and put it into a packet to go over with the class. During the process of getting these worksheets done I didn't understand at first how to do the worksheets. I went to my classmates to see if they had a better grip on the subject at hand. They didn't understand it either so we asked Dr. Drew for a farther explanation of the concept. Dr. Drew explain the subject farther and I started to understand. Dr.Drew explained that we are just using (a),(h), and (k) to find the equation of the parabola. We used this information to find the vertex in the rocket problem. Then after all the stress and confusion went away and everything started to make sense. I thought to myself finally. I finally for once understand something in this class.