Objective: Identify the intercepts of a line and graph equations by finding intercepts.
The point at which a graph crosses the y-axis is called the y-intercept. Since this point is on the y-axis, the x-coordinate of a y-intercept is always zero. The point at which a graph crosses the x-axis is called the x-intercept. Since this point is on the x-axis, the y-coordinate of an x-intercept is always zero.
The intercepts of a line can be found from its graph or from its equation. Watch the video below.
It is possible to graph a linear equation by finding intercepts rather than by generating a table. First, find the intercepts from the equation and plot the points on the coordinate plane. Then, connect the points to obtain the graph of the line, and use a third point on the line as a check. Watch the video below.
Complete the worksheet attachment below and then check your answers using the solutions attachment. Once you have completed these exercises, click the link to advance to the next lesson.