Piecewise Functions Project

Summary:
This performance-based summative assessment concludes a Pre Calculus unit on Graphing Functions, including
previous sections Functions/Relations, identifying Domain and Range, increasing/decreasing/constant intervals,
relative Minimums and Maximums, and Even Odd Symmetry. It is a good way to incorporate all of the function
vocabulary in a Rule of 4 (Algebraic, Numeric, Graphical, Verbal description) format.
The students are assigned random partners, and a unique piecewise function to sketch, and identify: Domain, Range,
etc. This gives the students an opportunity to work with someone they may not have worked with before, hence
fostering communication skills. And since each pair has a unique function, the pairs are encouraged to help each
other, thus furthering the teamwork aspect. The various pieces include all families of functions studied to date:
Linear, Square Root, Absolute Value, Squaring, Cubic, and Greatest Integer. Hence, its also a great way to reinforce
the concept of families of functions.
The functions are drawn on the large poster paper and displayed throughout the classroom. And to further show the
connection between sequential math classes, I can use the posters with my Calculus students to discuss the concepts
of Limits and Continuity. And later use them in Pre Calculus to construct a scavenger hunt, for example, find the
functions whose domain does not include all real numbers. Those connections are vital to a successful math career.

Student Instructions and Rubric:

Names:________________________
________________________

Problem Number:_____

After your random partner has been selected, you will be assigned a unique piecewise
function. No pairs have the same function, so you may consult with other groups if you need
to. First you are going to want to sketch the function on a piece of graph paper, and then copy
it nicely onto the poster paper and hang it on the wall. You will also need to describe your
function using all of the function vocabulary that we have reviewed this year: families
represented; domain; range; intervals over which the function is increasing, decreasing,
constant: relative minimums and maximums; and any symmetry. In order to sketch the graph,
you will need to construct tables for each piece. Dont forget your endpoints for each piece!
And dont forget to complete the reflection on the back of this sheet.
The scoring for your project will be as follows:
Possible Points
Table(s) for each piece (including endpoints)

10

Earned Points

______

Open/Closed circles for endpoints

10

______

Families Represented

10

______

Actual Sketch of the graph

30

______

Domain (for the function, not each piece)

______

Range (ditto)

______

Intervals over which the function is: )

10

______

Relative Minimums

______

Relative Maximums

______

Any Symmetry (Even or Odd?) )

______

Peer Review (make sure to ask another group

To check your poster for accuracy)

______

TOTAL

100

______

Increasing
Decreasing
Constant

Student Reflection:
Something I learned about from doing this project (include Piecewise functions as well as the
collaborative experience):

Something I am still curious about Piecewise functions.