math class 678 4-in-1 skill sheets
Key Features of Parabolas, Algebra 1 4-in-1 Skill Sheet (HSF.IF.B.4)
HSF.IF.B.4 Algebra 1 Unit 12: Quadratic Functions

Key Features of Parabolas

I can name the vertex, axis of symmetry, intercepts, domain and range of a parabola.

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The problem this sheet solves

Students carry both all reals over from linear functions, where it is true, and nothing about a parabola's picture contradicts it unless you look at the vertex on purpose. A parabola turns, so it has a lowest or highest value and never goes past it — and this is the first function in the course where domain and range come apart. The sheet credits the half that is correct rather than marking the whole answer wrong, because a student told half of that is exactly right learns more than one told that is wrong. It also holds the line that an axis of symmetry is a LINE, written x = 3 and not 3, which is the small notation habit that separates a student who has understood the feature from one repeating a number.

The key rule

The domain of a parabola is all real numbers. The range is not: it starts at the vertex and runs one way, up if a is positive and down if a is negative.

Domain all. Range stops.

Watch out

The mistake: A student says y = x2 − 2x − 3 has domain all reals and range all reals.

The fix: The domain IS all reals — that half is right. But the vertex is (1, −4) and it opens up, so nothing is ever below −4.

What is included

  • Reference page — student-friendly definitions, a worked example, a Watch Out error pair, and the key rule
  • Practice page — six problems, building from foundational to multi-step
  • Apply page — a word problem, a reasoning prompt, and an error-analysis task
  • Assess — a half-page exit ticket, two to a sheet, with a score box
  • Full answer key — every item worked, plus a grading guide that says what each wrong answer tells you
  • Ink-saver edition of all 7 pages
  • 14-slide teacher deck (PowerPoint) with presenter notes on every slide

Standard codes refer to the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics. Math Class 678 is an independent publisher, not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by NGA Center or CCSSO. Every product is sold on Teachers Pay Teachers.