Created by Tyler Wicke
10 questions
9th - 11th Grade
Math
Updated Oct 2026
Focus and Directrix Day 1 is a Grade 9–11 mathematics worksheet that builds fluency with parabolas whose vertex is at the origin. Through 10 multiple-choice questions, students identify the equation of the directrix from a focus, determine a parabola’s equation from its focus, and interpret diagrams to select an equation with the correct orientation and coefficient. The practice emphasizes how the focus location determines whether a parabola opens up, down, left, or right, and how the distance from the vertex affects the standard-form equation. It helps students connect coordinate information, directrix equations, and graphical representations instead of treating each form as an isolated rule. Use this free printable worksheet for guided practice, independent review, or a quick check of understanding; it includes a complete answer key for efficient feedback.
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WorksheetsAnswer Keyy=-3
y=3
x=-3
x=3
y2=12x
y2=-12x
x2=12y
x2=-12y
x2=8y
y2=16x
This worksheet uses 10 multiple-choice questions to help students determine a parabola’s directrix and equation when the vertex is at the origin. Students use the focus coordinates to identify the opening direction, select the correct directrix, choose the appropriate standard form, and interpret two diagrams showing parabolas.
Begin by reviewing how the focus position determines the parabola’s opening direction and places the directrix the same distance from the vertex on the opposite side. Model one vertical and one horizontal example, then have students explain why the choices switch between x = values and y = values. Use the worksheet’s diagram-based questions afterward to connect the coordinate rule to a visual graph.
Students may place the directrix on the same side of the vertex as the focus instead of on the opposite side, or confuse horizontal parabolas with vertical ones. They may also use the focus distance directly as the coefficient, overlooking the relationship between p and the standard forms y² = 4px and x² = 4py. In the diagram questions, check that students read both the opening direction and the focus position before choosing between similar coefficients such as 4 and 16.
Wayground provides this worksheet as a printable PDF and as a digital quiz, and it includes a complete answer key for all 10 multiple-choice questions. For printable submissions, scan student work with the Wayground for Teachers app to support efficient grading. The printable format can also help schools reduce screen time while students practice parabola equations.
Use the worksheet’s Advanced Settings to adjust font spacing and font size so the directrix and equation choices are easier to track. You can also enable a dyslexia-friendly font or translate the worksheet into another language. These options can make the coordinate notation, multiple-choice equations, and diagram prompts more accessible without changing the targeted parabola skill.
Wayground offers a broad collection of free printable worksheets and practice problems across subjects, with downloadable PDFs and answer keys to support essential skills and concepts. Browse more resources at https://wayground.com/en-us/worksheets.
