Use Piecewise

Functions
Activity 1.3
SpringBoard, Algebra 2
Vocabulary
 A piecewise function is defined by at least
two equation, each of which applies to a
different part of the function’s domain.
 It looks like there are pieces of graphs on the
coordinated plane.
 Points on the graph of a function in which
there is a break, hole, or gap are called
points of discontinuity.
Vocabulary
 A step function is a piecewise function that
is defined by a constant value over each part
of its domain.
 Its graph resembles a set of stairs.

The average rate of change of a function

between two points on its graph is the slope
of the line through the two points:
Average rate of change =
y 2  y1
x2  x1
 Example 1:
 Evaluate the function when x = 3

 x  1, if x  2
g ( x)  
4 x  1, if x  2
 You Try:
 Evaluate the function when x = -4 and x = 2.

3x  2, if x  0

f ( x)   1
 4 x  1, if x  0
Graph:
 y = 3/4x – 1, if x < 4

 y = -x + 3, if x > -1

 y = 5x + 4, if -2 < x < 1

 y = -4, if x < 5
 Example 2:
 Graph
 2 x  1, if x  - 1
1

f ( x)   x, if - 1  x  1
4
3, if x  1
 You Try:
 Graph
1
 2 x  1, if x  0

f ( x)   x  1, if 0  x  2
 x, if x  2


Example 3:
 Write a piecewise function for the step
function shown.
 Example 4:
 Write the function f(x) = 3|x + 1| - 2 as a
piecewise function.
You Try:
 Write the function f(x) = |x + 4| - 1 as a
piecewise function.
 x  3, if x  - 4
f ( x)  
 x  5, if x  - 4