Absolute Value Functions in Tabular and Graph Form: Example 38

Topic

Special Functions

Description

This math example illustrates the creation of a table of x-y coordinates and the corresponding graph for the absolute value function y = -|-2x + 1| - 1. The image shows a graph plotted with points at (-2, -6), (-1, -4), (0, -2), (1, -2), and (2, -4). This example is part of a series exploring absolute value functions, demonstrating how combining a negative coefficient, negating the absolute value, and subtracting a constant affects the graph's orientation, steepness, and vertical position. Absolute value functions are a fundamental concept in algebra, introducing students to equations that involve taking the absolute value of a variable or expression. This collection of examples showcases various forms of absolute value functions, allowing students to observe how changes in the equation impact the resulting graph's shape, steepness, orientation, and position. Providing multiple worked-out examples is essential for students to fully grasp the concept of absolute value functions. By examining different scenarios, students can identify patterns and develop a deeper understanding of how these functions behave. This approach helps reinforce important concepts such as the characteristic V-shape of absolute value graphs, the impact of negating the absolute value on the graph's orientation, how coefficients affect the graph's steepness, and how constants outside the absolute value influence the vertical position. Through repeated exposure to diverse examples, students can build intuition and improve their ability to analyze and graph absolute value functions independently.

For a complete collection of math examples related to Special Functions: Absolute Value Functions click on this link: Math Examples: Special Functions: Absolute Value Functions Collection.