Identifying Asymptotes Activity
Students categorize Rational Functions & Identify Vertical Asymptotes, Horizontal Asymptotes, Slant Asymptotes, and Holes.
In this activity, students cut off a strip of 6 rational function cards. After analyzing the degrees and factoring, they classify them into a chart. The functions must be categorized by how many of each type of asymptote or hole the graph would have.
Once the cards have been attached, the student must find each hole or asymptote and write its equation. Then, for any square in the chart that remains empty and does not have a card, the student must come up with their own rational function that would meet that criteria.
This critical thinking exercise gets students analyzing rational functions and also working backwords to write their own with specific types of asymptotes.
It works really well in teams of two students.
Reviews from other teachers:
- This is a great way to assess students' knowledge of finding asymptotes and holes in the graph. Students work in groups to complete the chart. It usually takes at least one day, depending on the level of student ability. I have used it for many years, and will continue to!
- The high school kids love doing the cut & paste activities. It was the start to some really good conversations in class. Nice resource for the students to look back upon when they review/study.
- This was a great activity that got students engaged with the content!
- It worked well. Students were able to practice asymptotes effectively.
- Asymptotes can be a tricky concept for students to understand but this activity was a great help!
- This was perfect as a summary activity on rational functions!
- Great amount of rigor and engagement.
- Excellent resource! I loved that the students had to create their own rational functions in order to complete the chart.
- great way to have students interact!
- Even my high school boys found this activity engaging! It was very helping as a hands-on activity in addition to notes.
- Great resource! I love that students must create their own original functions for several problems. Thank you