Macroconcept(s): MODELS, SYSTEMS

1. Models simulate real-world processes and products

Quadratic functions can be used to solve real-life problems as they are a simplification of the real world, and help us to make sense of
the results.
2. Models facilitate testing and prediction
Quadratic functions allow unknown values to be expressed in an equation that can be solved, thus allowing calculations to be made
more easily. For example, in Physics, the time taken by an object in free fall can be calculated by expressing it in quadratic functions.
3. Models can be physical, conceptual or mathematical
Quadratic functions are a mathematical model that relates the elements of the real world with one another so as to simplify the process
of finding its value.
4. Systems follow rules
There are rules involved in the solving of quadratic functions, for example, the quadratic formula used must always be the same.
5. Systems have identifiable elements
The different symbols used in quadratic functions have various purposes. For example, f(x) refers to x being a function of f.

Mathematical concept: CONSTANCY
Ideas of numbers can be written in different forms, but their values are not changed.
WAYS OF SOLVING QUADRATIC EQUATIONS
1. Factorization
Express the equation in the form ax
2
+bx+c = 0 before solving to become (x+_)(x+_). Eg 2x
2
-5x-3 = 0 -> (2x+1)(x-3) = 0
2. Completing the square
Express the equation in the form ax
2
+bx+c = 0 before solving to become a(x+b)
2
= c. Eg. x
2
-11x+26 = 0 -> (x-11/2)
2
= 17/4
3. Quadratic formula
Express the equation in the form ax
2
+bx+c = 0. Substitute the values of a, b and c into the equation
SOLVING QUADRATIC INEQUALITIES
1. Graphical method
- Find the x-intercepts of the equation and mark it on the graph
- Find the interval where the graph fulfils the given inequality and shade it that interval will be the answer
2. Boundary numbers method
- Obtain 0 on one side of the equation and set the expression on the other side to 0 in order to solve for the x-intercepts.
- Draw a number line and mark the x-intercepts found to divide them into intervals
- Substitute a value from each interval into the expression. If the value obtained is positive, all numbers within that interval will be positive.
- Choose the interval which satisfies the inequality and present the solution
SUM AND PRODUCT OF ROOTS