Mathematical+Reflections,+p+68+0910

=Variables and patterns DM= the first steps in finding and learning about patterns.
 * Big understanding:** Observation and description of changes in the world around us are

INV 5 Essential Question: How can a graphing calculator help me to discover relationships between variables?

MR number 5 Write a letter to a friend explaining how to use a graphing calculator to make graphs and tables. Use a specific example to illustrate your explanation.

Dear Friend

Here are the steps on how to use a graphing calculator Get familiar with the keypad. Unlike a normal calculator, the graphing calculator utilizes a keypad that is similar to a phone keypad as it features both numbers and letters. The letters are only able to be accessed if your hit the "Alpha" key, which is located in a different place on various models of calculators. Also unlike the traditional calculator, the graphing calculator has an "On" button and an "Off" button. Find the exponent button on your calculator. This is one of the calculator's most useful features, as it allows you to quickly and easily find any number to any exponent. You can even use the letters to enter in a value for X to the N exponent, a helpful trick when writing out variable equations. Locate the "Y=" button, traditionally found along the top of the calculator underneath the screen. This button will allow you to write equations that can be turned into graphs. An example of a "Y=" equation that will yield a graph is:Y=3X +6You can also utilize the "Y=" button for multiple equations, therefore multiple graphs on the same axis. Graph the equation above clicking on the "graph" button, usually found next to or near the "Y=" button under the screen of the calculator. This will toggle any equations you have written out into a grid and draw the graph line through it appropriately. Most calculators also have zoom buttons available so you can scroll close to your graph or further away as necessary. You can return to the equation view by selecting the "Y=" button again. Find the contrast and brightness buttons on your calculator. Since the screens are far more advanced than a normal calculator, it is important you manipulate saturation and brightness to a level that is comfortable to your eyes. Consider making the screen darker than it defaults to, as this will make reading graphs easier. Know you know how to use a graphing calculator. Sincerely, Daksh Mullick
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2. a) number of Tents = T number of customers = C there fore equation is T = 1/2*C.

b) Yes. Even if the total number of customers is not given, we can still find the number of tents for any number of customers by using the equation.

3. We can make a graph and a table for jumping jacks for which equations cannot be made. For every number of jumping jacks the number of jumps varies.

__Summary__ I learned a lot about how to use a graphing calculator. At first I didn't even know what any of th buttons meant on the calculator. I learned new words and how to graph and table things on a graphing calculator. I learned lots of new things and have lots of new ideas.