Graphing Parabolas with Tables

The video tutorial explains how to graph quadratic functions, specifically parabolas, using a table of values. It covers identifying the vertex using the formula -b/2a, selecting appropriate x values, calculating corresponding y values, and plotting these points to draw the parabola. The tutorial emphasizes the importance of including the vertex and ensuring symmetry in the graph.

What is the first step in graphing any type of function?

• Drawing the graph

• Identifying the coefficients

• Making a table of values

• Finding the vertex

In the standard form of a quadratic function, what does the 'a' coefficient represent?

• The y-intercept

• The coefficient of x^2

• The coefficient of x

• The constant term

How do you find the vertex of a parabola?

• By finding the y-intercept

• By setting x to zero

• Using the formula -a/2b

• Using the formula -b/2a

What is the vertex of the function f(x) = x^2 + 2x - 1?

• x = -2

• x = 1

• x = -1

• x = 0

Which x-values should you choose to graph a parabola?

• Any random values

• Values around the vertex

• Only negative values

• Only positive values

What is the y-value for x = -3 in the function f(x) = x^2 + 2x - 1?

• 1

• 0

• 2

• 3

What is the purpose of making a table when graphing a function?

• To find the y-intercept

• To identify the coefficients

• To determine points on the graph

• To calculate the slope

What is the y-coordinate for x = 0 in the function f(x) = x^2 + 2x - 1?

• -1

• 0

• 1

• 2

What shape does the graph of a quadratic function take?

• A straight line

• An ellipse

• A circle

• A parabola

What ensures that the graph of a parabola is symmetric?

• Using only negative x-values

• Using only positive x-values

• Including the vertex

• Choosing random x-values