Graph parabolas

“Parabolas” is an interactive activity for students learning about quadratic functions and their graphs. Practice graphing parabolas, analyzing their properties, and understanding how the coefficients affect the graph.

For each quadratic function, determine the shape of the parabola, whether it opens upward or downward, and the location of its vertex. Then position the graph correctly on the coordinate plane.

How to practice:

• Examine the function and substitute values of $x$ to find points on the graph.
• Locate the vertex and move the purple point to it. Use $x=0$ only if the vertex lies on the y-axis. To set the shape of the parabola, choose a different value of $x$, such as $2$ or $3$, and move the green point to the corresponding point on the graph.
• Select “Check” when your graph is complete, or “Reset” to start again.
• Select “Hint” for help finding the vertex and plotting the parabola.

This activity develops graphing skills, mathematical reasoning, spatial understanding, and the ability to analyze functions. Work with the coordinate plane, identify key points on a graph, recognize patterns, and draw conclusions from a mathematical model.

Regular practice strengthens your understanding of quadratic functions and helps you prepare for tests. Graphing and analyzing parabolas also supports later algebra topics, solving quadratic equations, and investigating functions.

To practice graphing linear functions, try this practice activity.