Learning Resources

Investigation 11: Graphing a Polynomial Function

Step 1: Find the x-intercepts of the graph of the function. To do this, it may be necessary to apply the Factor Theorem and the Rational Root Theorem to factor the related polynomial expression.

Step 2: Create a table of values to determine how the function looks between the x-intercepts. Find the y-intercept as well. You may need to refer back to Focus B in section 2.1.

Step 3: Plot the points from Step 2 and connect with a smooth curve.