MODULE ONE
Unit 2
Graphs
Contents
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Learning Outcomes
3.0 Learning Content
1.1 Graphs
1.2 Linear Functions
1.3 Quadratic Functions
1.4 Intercepts
1.5 Slope(Gradient/Tangent)
1.6 Symmetry
1.7 Limiting Values
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary
6.0 Tutor-Marked Assignments
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7.0 Reference/Further Reading
1.0 Introduction
In other to undergo the study of calculus in Mathematics, possession of the knowledge of
graphs such as that of linear and quadratic is something that can never be over emphasize.
So therefore, in this unit, you will be introduced to graphs and some of its components such
as slope and intercept.
2.0 Learning Outcomes
At the end of this unit, you should be able to identify:
1. the graph of a linear function.
2. the graph of a quadratic function.
3.0 Learning Content
3.1 Graphs
This is a diagram showing the relationship between a dependent variable y and independent
variable x .
3.2 Linear Functions
The general expression for a linear function of a variable x is give y x Where is a
constant referred to as the gradient (slope) of the function y and the intercept of the graph
on the y axis.
We note here that corresponds with the value of y when x 0. This gives the intercept of
the graph on y-axis. Hence the equation of y-axis is given as x 0. whereas the equation of
x-axis is given as y 0.
Now for any given point x 0 , y 0 to lie on the straight line we must have that
𝑦−𝑦0
𝑥−𝑥0
= 𝛼.
Hence the equation of the line that passes through the point x0 , y 0 with gradient m is given
as 𝑦 = 𝛼𝑥 + (y0 − 𝛼𝑥0 )
Hence the intercept of the line on the y-axis is given as y y o xo
We note here that the intercept of any graph on the x-axis corresponds with the zero of the
function that is the roots of the equation obtained by setting the function to zero.
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3.2 Quadratic Functions
The function f x is said to be a quadratic function of x if f x is of the form
f x x 2 x .
The graph is symmetrical about y-axis if 0 and has either a minimum or a maximum
turning point depending on whether the constant 0 or 0.
More shall be discussed on the sketching of graphs of function as the course progresses as a
full discussion of the concept requires some knowledge of the calculus which shall be
developed later in the programme. But for the meantime we shall go over the following that
are basic requirement for the sketching of any graph.
3.5 Slope (Gradient/Tangent)
In sketching the graph of a function, it is often helpful to know the slope of the function. This
is especially useful in the case of a linear function. As can be seen from the representation of
a linear function we have only two parameters (the slope and the intercept) the linear function
can be sketched uniquely if we know any point on the graph together with its slope.
3.6 Symmetry
This property is a very invaluable idea about the nature of the graph. We note that the graph
of a function f x is symmetrical about the y-axis if the function is an even function of x. If
however the function is odd function of x then the graph will be symmetrical about the origin.
At this point it is therefore necessary to explain the concept of even and odd functions of x.
the function f x is said to be an even function of x if f x f x and odd function if
f x f x .
3.7 Limiting Values
This gives an approximation or estimation of the function f x as x tends to some prescribed
value. The knowledge of the above attribute is therefore the requirements for sketching the
graph of any function f x .
4.0 Conclusion
It is believed that by now you already know what a graph is, and its components such as the
slope and intercept.
5.0 Summary
You have learnt in this unit that:
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a) A Graph- is a diagram showing the relationship between a dependent variable y and
independent variable x .
b) A Linear function is y x Where is a constant referred to as the gradient (slope)
of the function y and the intercept of the graph on the y axis.
c) Quadratic functions as f x x 2 x .
d) Intercepts.
e) Slope.
f) Symmetry.
g) Limiting value.
6.0 Tutor-Marked Assignments
1. Check if the following function are symmetry or not:
a.y x2 b. y x 2
2. Define the following in your own way:
a. Graph
b. Gradient
c. Symmetry
d. Limiting values.
7.0 Reference/Further Reading
BLAKEY, J Intermediate Pure Mathematics, 5th Edition. MacMillan Press Limited.1977
London
BUNDAY, B.D Pure Mathematics for Advanced Level, Second Edition. Heinemann
Educational Books Limited, 1988. London
CLARKE, L.H Pure Mathematics at Advanced Level, Metric Edition. Heinemann Educational
Books Limited, [Link]