Scheme of work: GCSE Foundation: Year 11: Term 1: Graphical Functions
Prerequisite Knowledge
Plot graphs of equations that correspond to straight-line graphs in the coordinate plane
recognise, sketch and interpret graphs of linear functions
Success Criteria
Recognise, sketch and interpret graphs of quadratic, simple cubic functions and the reciprocal function y = 1/x with x ≠0.
Solve quadratic equations by finding approximate solutions using a graph
Key Concepts
To generate the coordinates students need to have a secure understanding of applying the order of operations to substitute and evaluate known values into equations.
Quadratic, Cubic and Reciprocal functions are non-linear which means they do not have straight lines. All graphs of this nature should be drawn with smooth curves.
Students need to gain an understanding of the shape of each function in order to identify incorrectly plotted coordinates
Common Misconceptions
Students often have difficulty substituting negative values for complex equations. Encourage the use of mental arithmetic.
By identifying lines of symmetry in each function students will have a greater understanding of the typical shapes for each function.
By creating the table of results students will be more able to choose a suitable scale for their axes.