1.

Understand, describe and interpret the

graphs of polynomial functions.
2. Solve problems involving polynomial
functions.
The graph of the polynomial function
eventually rises or falls depends on the leading
coefficient (an) and the degree (n) of the
polynomial function.
Use the Leading Coefficient Test to
determine the end behavior of the graph
of the
polynomial functions.
a. f(x) = –x3 + 5x
b. P(x) = -3x6 + 3x3 + 5
b. y = x2(x + 2)(x – 2)
c. g(x) = 3(x + 3)(x + 1)(x – 1)
Turning point
-where the graph changes from increasing to
decreasing (rising to falling) or decreasing to
increasing (falling to rising).

A polynomial of degree n will have at most n −1 turning

points.
For each given polynomial function, describe or
determine the following then sketch the graph.
a. x- intercepts and y-intercept
b. multiplicity of roots
c. number of turning points
d. turning points
e. sketch

1. P(x) = x3 - 2x2 - x + 2
2. y = x3 + 4x2 – x - 4
Steps
1.Read the problem carefully.
2.Determine the known/unknown
measures. Use symbol x for independent
variable and f for function value.
3. Write down any numerical facts about
the variable and the function value.
4. Once you have applied the mathematic
model to solve the unknown measure,
write a conclusion.
1. Several students from calsci working
with 40m of fencing material decide to
enclose a rectangular garden using 1
side of the building as one side of the
garden.
a. Express the area of the rectangular
garden as a function of x of a side.
b. What is the maximum area that the
students can close?
c. What should be the dimensions of
the garden in order to yield the area?
2. The sum of two numbers is 24. Find
the maximum product and the two
numbers.