Mathematical Practices
Can also be used as Embedded Common Formative Assessments
Embedded Files
AP Precalculus centers on functions modeling dynamic phenomena. Research indicates that deep understanding of functions and their graphs as embodying dynamic covariation of quantities best supports student preparation for calculus.
AP Precalculus Mathematical Practices
Click the skill for Questions to Ask Students & Sample Activities.
Solve equations & inequalities represented analytically, with and without technology.
Express functions, equations, or expressions in analytically equivalent forms that are useful in a given mathematical or applied context.
Construct new functions using transformations, compositions, inverses, or regressions, that may be useful in modeling contexts, criteria, or data, with and without technology.
Identify information from graphical, numerical, analytical, and verbal representations to answer a question or construct a model, with and without technology.
Construct equivalent graphical, numerical, analytical, and verbal representations of functions that are useful in a given mathematical or applied context, with and without technology.
Describe the characteristics of a function with varying levels of precision, depending on the function representation and available mathematical tools.
Apply numerical results in a given mathematical or applied context.
Support conclusions or choices with a logical rationale or appropriate data.
Building Mathematical Practices in Unit 2
Exponential & Logarithmic Functions
Students should learn to communicate differences and similarities among arithmetic sequences, linear functions, geometric sequences, and exponential functions. Students can develop a deeper understanding of these four function types by considering how each would be represented in a graph, in a table, in an analytical representation, and through verbal descriptions of related scenarios. Examining multiple representations is also powerful in understanding composition of functions and relationships between functions and their inverse functions. In this unit, multiple representations should be used to explore the inverse relationship between exponential and logarithmic functions.
See AP Classroom for more information.
Mathematical Practices & the AP Exam
Look in AP Classroom for Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) & Free-Response Question (FRQ) progress checks
for Unit 2 and embed them into instruction as formative assessments.
The latter, FRQs, is one way to bring in the Mathematical Practices.
For other forms of assessment, check out the Assessment tab!
Page updated
Report abuse