Composition of Functions (Algebraic Method)

Sarah Jarnagin
Learning Target
Level 2: Composition of Functions
-Working toward level 3: show that two functions are inverses
using composition of functions.
Objectives
Review linear, quadratic, and exponential functions.
Practice evaluating numerical answers of a composition of
functions.
Begin to understand evaluating algebraic composition of
functions.
Resources
Student Composition Notebook
Projector
Carousel Activity
Past Quizzes (Linear, Quadratic, and Exponential)
Calculator
Extension Worksheet (Cubic Functions, Explicit)
Practice Worksheet (Tables of Linear, Quadratic, and Exponential
Functions)
Learning Plan (90 min)
Collect Homework (5 min)
Collect sections 1.6 and 1.7
Display section 1.8 homework
Pass Back Quizzes (25 min)
Discuss how highlighting works and when their scores will be
posted.
Do students want to work through their errors?
o Yes: pair up with someone and correct your quizzes with a
different colored pen.
o No: give each student either the Cubic worksheet or the
extra tables based on how they did on the quiz (2 or
below=extra practice, 2 or above=cubic functions).
Discuss Composition of Functions (20 min)
Refresh student memory of evaluating numerical composition of
functions by working through an example as a class.

Show what a composition of algebraic functions looks like

(f(g(x)), g(f(x))).
Work through an example as a class, asking students to assist
along the way.
o Use sticky notes to replace x with the function.
Give students an example that we will work through as a class
but give them a few minutes to attempt it without help first.

Carousel Activity on Composition of Functions (30 min)

Discuss expectations of carousel activity (be respectful, give
every station a shot, work with peers).
o Come see me to check rotation before you return to the
classroom.
Assign a station for students to begin at and dismiss them into
the foyer to work through carousel activity.
o Assess where each student is to gauge problematic areas
Wrap-up (10 min)
How did the carousel activity go?
Work through any problematic stations together.
Any other questions? Dont forget to come in for help if you need
it on the homework!
Assessments
Carousel Activity
An informal assessment is implemented after students begin
finishing the carousel activity. They are required to check in with
me to check their rotation before they can return to the
classroom. This is so I can see where the problematic areas are
and discuss them during the wrap-up.
Entrance Ticket
Next class period students will be given an entrance ticket over
evaluating composition of functions numerically and
algebraically. This will show us where each student stands and
how much more instruction over this concept is necessary before
moving on. We may also use these as a body of evidence for the
level 2 target of composition of functions.