Polynomial functions

Suppose a certain species of bird thrives on a small island. The population can be estimated using a polynomial function. We can use this model to estimate the maximum bird population and when it will occur. We can also use this model to predict when the bird population will disappear from the island. In this section, we will examine functions that we can use to estimate and predict these types of changes.

A while back I shared a reference sheet for students learning how to divide polynomials using synthetic division. We focus on this method in our Algebra 2 class, but because polynomial long division is in the standards, I thought to also make a reference sheet to help students with this method. #polynomials #polynomiallongdivision #algebra2

End behavior "discovery" intro - start with a basic introduction to vocabulary (degree, leading coefficient). Give each group a copy of the first page to cut out and sort based on the degree and leading coefficient. We'll then compare the end behavior of the graphs in each group to come up with the "rules" for polynomial end behavior.

As we have already learned, the behavior of a graph of a polynomial function of the form

Polynomials can be divided the same as numeric constants, either by factoring or by long division. The method you use depends upon how complex the polynomial dividend and divisor are. Look at how complex the divisor is. How complicated the...

Are your students struggling to graph polynomial functions? In this post is a free cheat sheet for the steps of graphing polynomials, as well as links to other helpful resources for teaching polynomials.

Practice classifying a common function given its formula. Nonlinear function types include polynomial & rational, square root, exponential, and absolute value.

Explore math with our beautiful, free online graphing calculator. Graph functions, plot points, visualize algebraic equations, add sliders, animate graphs, and more.