8923 ESSENTIAL MATH 3 Unit 6: Exponential Functions

Lesson 3: Graphing Exponential Functions

Duration of Days: 3

Lesson Objective

Students will graph exponential functions and identify their key features.

• What do exponential graphs look like?
• What is the y-intercept of an exponential function?
• What is the horizontal asymptote?
• How does the base affect the shape of the graph?

Exponential graph, y-intercept, horizontal asymptote, growth, decay, shape

CCSS.MATH.9.F.IF.B.4, CCSS.MATH.9.F.IF.C.7

Description: Students create input/output tables for exponential functions and graph them. They observe that exponential growth curves upward steeply, while decay curves approach zero. They identify the y-intercept and horizontal asymptote. Purpose: To connect exponential equations to their visual representations. DOK Level: 2-3 (Application)

• Start with simple bases: f(x) = 2^x before f(x) = 3 × 2^x
• For struggling learners: Provide input/output tables; focus on plotting
• For advanced learners: Explore how coefficients and bases affect the graph
• Graphing technology: Use Desmos for visualization

 

• Observation: Can students plot points correctly?

• Worksheet: Given an exponential function, create a table and graph

• Identification task: Label y-intercept and asymptote on graphs

• Comparison: Graph exponential functions with different bases and describe differences

• Exponential function cards

• Input/output table templates

• Coordinate plane worksheets

• Graphing technology (Desmos)

• Resource: Desmos "Graphing Exponential Functions"