Let’s see this in action

The graph of y = x² (the quadratic parent function) is shown below.

1. Use your mouse to move the slider. Watch how the parabola changes as the value of "a" changes.
2. You can animate the changes in "a" by clicking on the triangle in the bottom left corner.

What happens to the new parabola when a < 0?

When “a” is positive, the parabola opens ____?____

Interactive popup. Assistance may be required.

Check Your Answer

Up

When “a” is negative, the parabola open ___?____

Interactive popup. Assistance may be required.

Check Your Answer

Down

How is the openness of the new parabola related to the parent function when:
(hover your mouse over each of the following to view the answer.)

a > 1 ?
a = 1 ?
0 < a < 1?
a = -1 ?
-1 < a < 0 ?
a < -1 ?