MHF4U:Functions

Unit #1: Introduction to Polynomial Functions

Activity #1: Investigation of characteristics of polynomial functions

Graphing Polynomial functions:

Part 1: Fill-in the chart below and look for any emerging patterns. Use GraphCalc or any other graphing software to
graph the functions. Function #2 has been completed for you. Use it as your model:

Polynomial Sketch of the function Degree Sign Quadrants

Functions (positive (left right)
or
negative
function)
3 to 1
Odd positive
 Odd Negative
(first
degree
Starts in polynomial
quadrant 2

Finishes
in
quadrant
4

Odd Postive 3 to 1
Odd Negative 2 to 4
Complete the following sentences:

1. When the degree of a polynomial function is odd and its leading coefficient is negative, it starts in quadrant _____ and
ends in quadrant ________ moving left to right.

2. When the degree of a polynomial function is odd and its leading coefficient is positive, it starts in quadrant _____ and
ends in quadrant ________ moving left to right.
 Time to investigate polynomial functions:

Part 2: Fill-in the chart below and look for any emerging patterns.

Polynomial Sketch of the function Degree Sign Quadrants

Functions (positive (left right)
or
negative
function)
 Even Negative
(second
degree
polynomial

Finish
Starts in
es
quadran
quadra
t3
nt 4
Complete the following sentences:

1. When the degree of a polynomial function is even and its leading coefficient is negative, it starts in quadrant _____
and ends in quadrant ________ moving left to right.

2. When the degree of a polynomial function is even and its leading coefficient is positive, it starts in quadrant _____
and ends in quadrant ________ moving left to right.

Time to investigate polynomial functions:

Part 3: Fill-in the chart below and look for any emerging patterns.
Polynomial Sketch of the function Degree Sign Quadrants
Functions (positive or (left right)
negative
function)
Complete the following sentences:

1. When a polynomial function has a repeated even root, the graph of the
function ________ at that root.

2. When a polynomial function has a repeated odd root greater than 1, the
graph of the function ________ at that root.