Technology can really help students understand changes in functions in Algebra II.

Using cool graphing tools like Desmos or GeoGebra, students can see how functions change in real time when they adjust different values.

Key Transformations:

1. Translations:

   • When you add or take away numbers from a function, the graph moves. For example, if you start with the function ( f(x) = x^2 ) and make it ( f(x) = x^2 + 3 ), the graph moves up by 3 units.

2. Reflections:

   • Flipping a graph across the x-axis or y-axis is easy to notice. If you change the function to ( f(x) = -x^2 ), it flips over the x-axis.

3. Stretching and Compressing:

   • You can stretch or squeeze a graph by multiplying the function. For example, ( f(x) = 2x^2 ) stretches the graph up, making it look narrower.

Illustrative Example:

With graphing tools, students can type in these changes and see the graphs change right away. This helps them learn better because they can see what happens and interact with it.