Suitable for Grades: 8th Grade
CCSS: 8.F.A.3, 8.F.B.5
CCSS Description: Interpret the equation y = mx + b as defining a linear function, whose graph is a straight line; give examples of functions that are not linear. For example, the function A = s2 giving the area of a square as a function of its side length is not linear because its graph contains the points (1,1), (2,4) and (3,9), which are not on a straight line.
Describe qualitatively the functional relationship between two quantities by analyzing a graph (e.g., where the function is increasing or decreasing, linear or nonlinear). Sketch a graph that exhibits the qualitative features of a function that has been described verbally.
Throughout this worksheet, learners will determine whether functions are linear or nonlinear. In Section A, students will decide whether 9 graphs are linear or not. In Section B students are given 9 equations. Lastly, Section C introduces tables of values where students will analyze how changes in x affect y to determine if the relationship is linear.
Nonlinear functions include quadratics, cubics, exponential and reciprocal.
See our worksheet “Recognising Cubics, Quadratics, Reciprocals and Straight Line Graphs” for more on this topic.