Growing, Growing, Growing
Essential Learning:
Evaluates expressions using exponents
Recognizes the connections between exponential equations and the growth patterns in tables and graphs of those equations
In Growing, Growing, Growing (Algebra) students recognize and represent exponential growth and decay in tables, graphs, words, and symbols; rules of exponents; scientific notation. This unit will help them to:
• Recognize situations where one variable is an exponential function of another variable
• Recognize the connections between exponential equations and growth patterns in tables and graphs of those relations
• Construct equations to express exponential patterns that appear in data tables, graphs, and problem conditions
• Understand and apply the rules for operating on numerical expressions with exponents
• Solve problems about exponential growth and decay in a variety of situations such as science or business
• Compare exponential and linear relationships
One of the challenges in plotting exponential data, is the case where some values are exponentially larger or smaller from other values. In other words, if you plot the largest values, you can’t see the smallest values or vice versa. Image trying to graph the size of a person and the size of the sun. Take this to the "nth" degree. How do you plot the smallest thing in the universe (quantum foam) and the largest thing in the universe (the universe itself) in the same graph?
Take a look at one cool solution.
