Introduction to Functions
Exploring the building blocks of mathematics
What is a Function?
Think of a function as a "math machine"! You put an input into it, the machine does something to it, and out comes exactly
It’s like a rule that connects numbers.
Example: f(x) = 2x + 3 This function takes 'x', multiplies it by 2,
and then adds 3.
Your turn: If x = 4, what is f(x)?
Functions as Mapping
A function is also like a map! It maps each input from one set to exactly one output in another set.
Let's explore mapping with an example.
Input Set Function Rule Output Set
• -2 f(x) = x² • 0
• -1 Each input number is squared. • 1
• 0 • 4
• 1
• 2
Activity: Can you match each input to its correct output? What are the outputs for -2, -1, 0, 1, 2 when using f(
Understanding Function Notation
When we write f(x), we're saying "the function of x" or "f of x". It's a shorthand way to write rules!
Example:
f(x) = 3x - 1
If we want to find the output when x = 5, we write f(5). f(5) = 3(5) - 1 f(5) = 15 - 1 f(5) = 14
Practice Time!
• If f(x) = 2x - 5, find f(3).
• If g(x) = x² + 1, find g(-2).
Domain and Range: What Can Go In, What Can Co
Every function has a set of possible inputs and a set of possible outputs.
Domain Range
The Domain is the set of all possible input values (x values) The Range is the set of all possible output values (f(x) or y values)
for which the function is defined. that the function can produce.
Functions All Around Us!
Functions aren't just for math class—they're everywhere in real life!
1 2
The Cost of Pens Distance Traveled
The total cost you pay depends on the number of pens you The distance you travel depends on how long you drive at a
buy. Cost = 0.50 × Number of Pens constant speed. Distance = Speed × Time
Class Discussion: Can you think of another real-life example where one thing depends on another, like a function? Share your ideas!
Visualizing Functions: Graphs!
Graphs help us see how functions behave. They show every input-output pair.
Linear Functions Quadratic Functions
These make a straight line. Example: y = 2x + 1 These make a U-shape (called a parabola). Example: y = x² -
2
Predict: What shape would the graph of y = 3x make? How about y = x³?
Summary: Key Ideas About Functions
We've covered a lot today! Here are the main takeaways about functions.
What They Are Notation
A rule that assigns exactly one output to each input. f(x) is shorthand for "f of x".
Domain & Range Representation
Domain: All possible inputs. Range: All possible Can be shown by mapping, tables, equations, or graphs.
outputs.
Functions are fundamental to understanding patterns and relationships in math and the real world.
Exit Ticket: Before You Go...
Let's check your understanding one last time! Please answer these
two questions.
• If f(x) = x² - 2, what is f(-1)?
• Give one real-life example of a function (something that
depends on something else).
Thank you for exploring functions with me today!
