1. Mr Barton’s Maths Notes Graphs 3. Shapes of Graphs www.mrbartonmaths.com

2. 3. Shapes of Graphs The Importance of knowing the Shapes of Graphs… If you can look at the equation of a graph and already have a pretty good idea of what shape it will be, you are more likely to spot any silly errors when plotting it NOTE: What follows are general shapes of graphs – learn to spot the key features of each! 1. Positive x Equation: Highest power of x is 1, and the x term is positive Examples:

3. 2. Negative x Equation: Highest power of x is 1, and the x term is negative Examples:

4. 3. Positive x 2 Equation: Highest power of x is 2, and the x 2 term is positive Examples:

5. 4. Negative x 2 Equation: Highest power of x is 2, and the x 2 term is negative Examples:

6. 5. Positive x 3 Equation: Highest power of x is 3, and the x 3 term is positive Examples:

7. 6. Negative x 3 Equation: Highest power of x is 3, and the x 3 term is negative Examples:

8. 7. Positive Reciprocal Equation: Contains a fraction with a positive x on the bottom Examples:

9. 8. Negative Reciprocal Equation: Contains a fraction with a negative x on the bottom Examples:

10. Good luck with your revision!