Title:

Conic Sections: Playing with Hyperbolas

Overview/Annotation:
Through a mixture of online exploration, and teacher
instruction, students will discover how Hyberbolas are
formed and will be able to use the key components
(center, vertices and the asymptotes) to generate the
equation of a graph.

Content Standard(s):

Local/National
Standards:

Primary Learning
Objective(s):

MA2013(9-12) 15. Create graphs of conic sections, including

Precalculus
parabolas, hyperbolas, ellipses, circles, and
degenerate conics, from second-degree
equations. (Alabama)
NCTM 9-12 Geometry Standards

Draw and construct representations of two- and

three-dimensional geometric objects using a
variety of tools.

Analyze properties and determine attributes of

two- and three-dimensional objects.

Students will be able to explain how to produce

a hyperbola when cutting a double napped cone. The
students will be able to apply the locus definition of a
hyperbola to produce a graph. Students will be able to
produce a second degree equation in standard form
from a given graph or when given the center, the
vertices, the foci, or the equations of the asymptotes.

Additional Learning
Objective(s):
Approximate Duration of 31 to 60 Minutes
the Lesson:
Materials and Equipment:
Hyperbola Worksheet
Essential Question Notetaking Guide
Technology Resources
Needed:

Hyperbola Definition Applet

Conic Section Explorer Tool - NCTM Illuminations

Background/Preparation:
Teachers need to be familiar with Geogebra (Free
Dynamic Graphing Software) and the Conic Section
Explorer Tool.
Students may need to be group in pairs for computer
work.
Procedures/Activities:
Engage: Using the Conic Section Explore Tool from the