Transforming Parabolas

Red

The equation f(x) = x2 can be transformed into the general form of a quadratic function, which is: f(x) = a(x-h)2+k. In this equation, the vertex is (0,0) which means the axis of symmetry is right at point 0, with a minimum value of 0. Since both the h and k value are zero, the graph will neither have a vertical or a horizontal stretch.

Black

The equation f(x) = -1/2(x-2)2+3 can be transformed into the general form of a quadratic function, which is: f(x) = a(x-h)2+k. In this equation, the vertex is (2,3) which means the axis of symmetry is right at point 2. The h value of 2 shifts the graph 2 units to the right, and the k value of 3 shifts the graph 3 units up. The coefficient a is -1/2​, which reflects the graph over the x-axis, causing it to open downwards, and compresses it vertically, making it wider. Together, these transformations result in a downward-opening, wider parabola with a maximum value of 3.

Green

The equation f(x) = -2(x-4)2 +3 can be written in the general form of a quadratic function, f(x) = a(x-h)2+k. In this case, the vertex is at (4,3), meaning the axis of symmetry is at x = 4. The h value of 4 shifts the graph 4 units to the right, and the k value of 3 shifts the graph 3 units up. The coefficient a is −2, which reflects the graph over the x-axis, making it open downwards, and stretches it vertically, making it steeper. These transformations result in a downward-opening, narrower-shaped parabola with a maximum value of 3.

Orange

The equation f(x) = 2(x+3)2+1 can be written in the general form of a quadratic function, f(x) = a(x-h)2+k. Here, the vertex is at (-3,1), meaning the axis of symmetry is at x = -3. The h value of -3 shifts the graph 3 units to the left, and the k value of 1 shifts the graph 1 unit up. The coefficient a is 2, which reflects the graph over the x-axis, making it open upwards, and stretches it vertically, making it steeper. These transformations result in an upwards-opening, narrower shaped parabola, with a minimum value of 1.

Purple

The equation f(x) = 1/4(x+1)2 can be written in the general form of a quadratic function, f(x) = a(x-h)2+k. In this case, the vertex is at (−1,0), meaning the axis of symmetry is at x=−1. The h value of −1 shifts the graph 1 unit to the left, and the k value of 0 means there is no vertical shift. The coefficient a is 1/4, which reflects the graph over the x-axis, making it open upwards, and compresses it vertically, making it wider. These transformations produce an upwards-opening, wider parabola, with a minimum value of 0.

Self-Assessment

1. How did you represent the same mathematical idea in multiple ways in this assignment?

I used Desmos to visually showcase my quadratic functions, giving readers a clear vision while reading my explanation for “a”, “h”, and “k” and how the transformations affected the graph.

2. State some of the relevant mathematical vocabulary words you used to demonstrate your understanding and their definitions. State where you found the definitions (your own memory, class notes, online?)

I used mathematical vocabulary such as “positive”, “negative”, “shift”, “horizontally”, “vertically”, “quadratic”, “function”, “vertex”, “axis of symmetry”, “minimum value” and “maximum value”. I got the definitions from class memories and online class notes.

3. How did you use formatting to share your information in a clear and organized way?

I used the same formatting to explain the transformations for all five quadratic equations so readers could get a better understanding.

Final Reflection

artifact

Apple is better than Android 

We averagely spend 6 hours a day, 3 months a year, 12 years a lifetime through our screens. They’ve already become a part of our daily lives. Why wouldn’t you want to invest in a perfect device that not only guarantees smooth operation, but also supports your everyday life? There’s countless brands on the market over the years, but the two that stand out are Apple and Android (which is owned by google). Although they both produce quality devices, here is why Apple is better than Android. 

Apple offers a far more user-friendly experience, compared to Android’s. I used to be an android user, and I’ve always had trouble looking for certain apps. Android devices have a wide range of interfaces due to their different manufactures while Apple has always stuck   with their clean signature style that works consistently. Although Android does provide plenty of different skin packs to satisfy customers, people prefer iPhone over android devices since there’s too many variations on the market which they see as a far less convenient option compared to Apple. Have you wondered why Apple devices offer way more apps than android? Well, an article called Android vs. iOS App Development by Subhasish noted that developers tend to create more apps for Apple over Android because there’s only one variation of iOS and they would have to test it on fewer devices, rather than the thousands from android. This simply points out that Apple offers a far more user-friendly experience with only one straightforward system.  

The online community is a scary place with all sorts of frauds and hackers around. Apple does a fabulous job of keeping us users safe from this dangerous virtual world. Think about the amount of information that you’ve stored online, your bank account, your passwords, just like most of you guys, I have all if not most of my personal information stored online. I cannot imagine what would happen if this information landed into the wrong hands. Through the article Android vs. iOS: Which is better for security?, writer Dan stated that hackers often target android users due to their lack of updates, allowing hackers to take advantage of the outdated devices. Apple did not disappoint, they’ve had over 85 major updates across the key products they produce while Android has had 17 major updates on the other hand. This easily made android the major target for most hackers. In the same article from Subhasish, in the cons of iOS development section, he mentioned that Apple has strict guidelines, and it could be challenging to see fast development in Apple. Although this was a con statement in the article, I see it as a pro statement for our online safety. Apple always makes sure that any information that goes through your device is safe. 

Throughout our lives, we’ve all asked for help. Getting the right guide, we need is more time efficient and allows us to receive more accurate information. Apple is well-known for their strong support system. They do an amazing job supporting customers with both their online and real-life assistance. Apple actually operates over 500 retail stores globally, and each of the stores provides in-person and repair services. According to their website, Apple also offers a large variety of resources, such as user manuals, troubleshoot guides and different articles, allowing customers to take their time and learn about the iOS system efficiently and easily online. Along with the virtual assistant, Siri, it’ll provide all sorts of personalized support, making sure you will be fully set for your iOS device. There’s close to 1300 brands that have produced android products, and with the number of different manufacturers, they simply will not be providing the same level of customer care as Apple. 

Apple has always been seen as a trustworthy company. They provide gentle care and support, allowing users to enjoy a smooth experience. For those of you who are seeking the flawless device for your everyday lives, Apple stands out as the perfect option. Apple provides a reliable and safe community while android just offers a wide range of device options. “Quality over quantity”, apple focuses on their quality and customer services, while building the best system on the market. There’s a reason why Apple has always been dominating in the tech industry, and I believe that they will continue to grow as a leader in the coming years. Thank you. 

Curricular Competencies Reflection

through this assignment, i’ve learnt different persuastion skills and techniques to improve my writing skills. i’ve applied techniques like logical and ethical persuastion skills into my work. i’ve also improved in my speaking skills. although it was still a developing speach and i still have a lot to work on, i’ve improved in my vocal. i’ still have to work on my eye contact, and body language since i didn’t do those during this speach.

Core Competencies Reflection

communication has always been my weakness and i’ve always wanted to improve. i used to be the guy that stays quiet and avoid public speaking. thorughout this class, i was determined to change and started small, such as group talks. as for my speech, i tried to be more vocal and inculded some eye contact. although it’s still at a developing level, i’ve improvved since the start of the course.