Graphing Linear Equations

In this lesson, we review how to graph linear functions. We begin by learning how to graph linear functions using a table of values. After this, we cover a faster and more efficient method which involves using the slope-intercept form of the line. When a linear function is solved for y, we can access the slope and y-intercept from the equation. The slope-intercept form: y = mx + b, we can plot the y-intercept as (0,b) and gain additional points using the slope of m. Additionally, we will review x-intercepts and y-intercepts. Recall that the x-intercept is the spot where the graph crosses the x-axis. This can be found by replacing y with a zero and solving for x. Similarly, the y-intercept is the spot where the graph crosses the y-axis. This can be found by replacing x with a zero and solving for y. Lastly, we will talk about horizontal and vertical lines. A horizontal line occurs when we have y = k, where k is any real number. This can be graphed as a horizontal line that passes through the point (0,k). A vertical line occurs when we have x = a, where a is any real number. A vertical line does not represent a function since for each x value there is more than one y-value. To graph a vertical line, we graph a vertical line that passes through the point (a, 0).