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Polynomial Explorer

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About This MicroSim

Adjust the degree and leading coefficient to see how polynomials behave:

  • Even degree + positive leading: Both ends go UP
  • Even degree + negative leading: Both ends go DOWN
  • Odd degree + positive leading: Falls left, rises right
  • Odd degree + negative leading: Rises left, falls right

Lesson Plan

Learning Objective: Students will examine how the degree and leading coefficient of a polynomial affect its shape and end behavior.

Key Rule: The degree tells you if the ends go the same direction (even) or opposite (odd). The leading coefficient tells you which way!