Function Machines

Today in class, we will learn about functions.  Your objectives for the day:

• Define function

• Predict the outputs of function machines

• Determine the rules of simple and complex function machines

• Use interactive websites to help understand Algebra

To begin, just follow the steps below.  When you finish a step, just return to this page by clicking the "Back" button.  Remember to fill in the worksheet as you go along.

1, Begin by reading about what a function is.  On your worksheet, write down the definition of a function in your own words.

2. Today we'll represent functions using "Function Machines."  You put in an input number, and it spits out an output number.  Spend a few minutes on this webpage trying to predict the data from the function machine.  Try it at least twice for each group member.  Copy down the data from one of your trials.

3. By putting in some input numbers and getting out some output numbers in this function machine, try to guess the rule.  Again, try it out at least a few times, and copy down the data and rule from one of your trials.

4. Same instructions as step number 3, but with a different function machine, this time a little more complex because it has two steps.  Try it out at least a few times, and copy down the data and rule from one of your trials.

5. If you have time, try out this function machine, which might include negative numbers.

Here's a fun game using functions at PBS.

Last updated October 19, 2008.