Azim Premji University At Right Angles
Understanding the coefficients of a quadratic expression and the role they play in the shape of the quadratic curve.
This visual is a zoomed in shot of a sculpture of metal snakes at Isha Home School, Coimbatore.
Answer the following questions:
Do you see any parabolas in these serpentine curves?
A general quadratic curve takes the form ax2 + bx +c. What is the effect of changing a, b and c? We will use Geogebra to find out.
Use the sliders to move the quadratic curve so that it fits along the lowest snake.
You will notice that the sliders have different effects on the parabola.
When answering the following questions, name the slider which is most influential in the aspect mentioned.
Which slider makes the parabola widen/narrow?
Which slider makes makes the parabola invert?
Which slider makes the parabola move up and down?
Which slider makes the parabola move left and right?
When the parabola fits the curve what are the values of a, b and c?
Extension Activities
Try inserting the picture at another spot and finding a, b and c?
Try inverting the picture and finding a, b and c?