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Graphing Linear Functions

MAT 1033 - Review Section 3

Graphing Linear Functions

A linear function is a function with no exponents, no variables in the denominator, and no

special symbols. To "solve" a LINEAR FUNCTION, make a graph. The line represents the

solution.

Linear functions can be graphed using any of the following techniques.

A. Make a chart and determine at least two ordered pairs. Then plot the points and connect.

−

1.)

y = 5x – 3

2) y =

B. When a linear equation is in Standard Form Ax + By = C it is helpful to graph using the x and y

intercepts. To find the x-intercept substitute 0 for y. To find the y-intercept substitute 0 for x.

Determine the x and y intercepts of the following linear equations and graph the solution.

Ex 1: 2x - 3y = 12

Ex 2: 5x + 2y = 8

x-intercept:

y-intercept:

C. When a linear equation is in the Slope-intercept Form - y = mx + b – it is useful to graph using

the y-intercept as your first point and the slope (rise over run) to determine additional point(s).

Identify the slope and y-intercept for each function and then graph.

Ex 1. y =

x - 2

Ex 2. y = -3x + 4

Ex 3. y = -x - 1

Slope:

y-intercpet:

y-intercept:

Graphing Linear Functions