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Below is a Grade 10 Lesson Plan on Graphing of Polynomials,
integrating research-based knowledge and principles of teaching.
Lesson Plan: Graphing of Polynomials
Grade: 10
Subject: Mathematics
Topic: Graphing of Polynomials
Duration: 60 minutes
Teaching Style: Interactive, hands-on, inquiry-based learning
Lesson Objectives:
By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:
1. Understand the concept of polynomial functions and their key characteristics.
2. Identify the general shape of polynomial graphs.
3. Use key features such as roots, turning points, and end behavior to graph
polynomial functions.
4. Apply the principles of symmetry and behavior at infinity to analyze
polynomials.
5. Graph simple polynomials (degree 1 to degree 3).
Standards:
CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSF.IF.B.4: Interpret functions that arise in
applications in terms of the context.
CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSF.IF.C.7: Analyze functions using different
representations (e.g., graphical, numerical, algebraic).
CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSA.CED.A.2: Create equations that describe
numbers or relationships.
Research-Based Knowledge:
Constructivism (Piaget, Vygotsky): Students build on prior knowledge
through hands-on experiences and discussions. This aligns with graphing
polynomials by connecting prior knowledge of linear and quadratic functions.
Cognitive Load Theory (Sweller): To prevent cognitive overload, the lesson
will be broken into smaller steps, focusing on one characteristic at a time
(end behavior, roots, turning points).
Active Learning (Freeman et al.): Encouraging students to graph
polynomials themselves promotes engagement and retention.
Teaching Principles:
1. Differentiated Instruction: The lesson will accommodate different learning
styles (visual, auditory, kinesthetic).
2. Collaborative Learning: Students will work in pairs or small groups to
encourage peer teaching and collaborative problem-solving.
3. Assessment for Learning: Ongoing informal assessments (questioning, exit
tickets, group work) will guide future lessons.
Materials Needed:
Whiteboard, markers
Graphing calculators (optional)
Graph paper
Computers/tablets (if available for digital graphing tools)
Handouts with polynomial functions for graphing
Online graphing tool (e.g., Desmos or GeoGebra)
Lesson Outline:
1. Introduction (10 minutes)
Hook: Start with a brief review of linear and quadratic graphs. Ask students
to recall the general shape of these graphs.
Overview of Polynomials: Explain that polynomials are algebraic
expressions involving terms of varying degrees (e.g., f(x)=ax3+bx2+cx+df(x)
= ax^3 + bx^2 + cx + d).
Real-world Application: Show a video or example of how polynomials are
used in real-world scenarios (e.g., physics for projectile motion).
2. Direct Instruction (15 minutes)
Definition: Define a polynomial function and the degree of a polynomial.
Discuss the end behavior and the influence of the degree of the polynomial.
Key Features:
o End Behavior: Discuss the behavior of polynomials at positive and
negative infinity based on the degree and the leading coefficient.
o Roots/Zeros: Introduce the concept of finding the x-intercepts of the
polynomial (set f(x)=0f(x) = 0).
o Turning Points: Explain that the number of turning points is one less
than the degree of the polynomial.
o Symmetry: Explain that polynomials of even degree generally have
symmetry about the y-axis (even degree) and odd degree polynomials
are symmetric about the origin.
Visual Demonstration: Use a graphing tool (Desmos or GeoGebra) to plot
various polynomials, demonstrating their features.
3. Guided Practice (15 minutes)
Step-by-Step Graphing: Using an example polynomial (e.g.,
f(x)=x3−4x2+3x−2f(x) = x^3 - 4x^2 + 3x - 2):
1. Identify the degree and the leading coefficient.
2. Find the roots (factorization or using the Rational Root Theorem).
3. Analyze end behavior.
4. Plot the roots and critical points.
5. Sketch the curve, identifying turning points and symmetry.
Group Work: Divide students into small groups and provide each group with
a different polynomial to graph. As they work, circulate and provide support.
4. Independent Practice (10 minutes)
Handout: Provide students with 2-3 polynomials to graph independently.
Encourage them to:
1. Find the degree and roots.
2. Identify turning points.
3. Sketch the graph based on the analysis.
5. Class Discussion and Reflection (5 minutes)
Student Presentations: Have a few students present their graphs to the
class, explaining the steps they took.
Discussion: Ask the class to identify common features in the graphs.
Compare polynomials of different degrees and their impact on graph shape.
6. Assessment and Closure (5 minutes)
Exit Ticket: Ask each student to answer the following question on a piece of
paper or digitally:
o "How do the degree and leading coefficient of a polynomial
affect the graph's end behavior?"
Quick Review: Summarize the main points of the lesson and give homework
assignments for further practice.
Assessment Strategies:
1. Formative:
o Monitor student participation during group work.
o Check for understanding through questioning during direct instruction.
2. Summative:
o Homework assignment: Graph a set of polynomials and write a short
explanation of their key features.
o Exit Ticket: To check individual student understanding at the end of the
lesson.
Homework Assignment:
1. Graphing Assignment: Students will be given a list of polynomial functions
(degree 1 to degree 4) to graph.
o For each polynomial, they should:
1. Determine the degree and leading coefficient.
2. Identify the roots.
3. Analyze the end behavior.
4. Plot and sketch the graph, identifying key features.
Extension Activities:
Higher-Level Students: Introduce polynomials with higher degrees and
discuss how the graph changes as the degree increases.
Technology Integration: Allow students to explore graphing polynomials
using online tools like Desmos to compare their sketches with digital graphs.
Reflection on the Lesson:
After the lesson, reflect on:
o Did students grasp the relationship between the degree of a
polynomial and its graph's features?
o Were the activities engaging and did they promote understanding?
o How can the lesson be adjusted for future iterations based on student
feedback?
This lesson plan integrates key pedagogical strategies and research on cognitive
load and active learning to ensure that students are not only learning about
polynomials but also engaging with the material in a way that fosters deep
understanding and retention.
