AP Precalculus / Unit 1: Polynomial and Rational Functions

1.13 Function Model Selection and Assumption Articulation

3 practice questions

Notes

Choose a model from the data's behavior:

Constant rate of change → linear.
Constant second differences, one turning point → quadratic.
Several turning points → higher-degree polynomial.
Behavior near a value or a limit at the ends → rational.
State assumptions (for example, the trend continues).

Practice

Data rise, peak, then fall symmetrically. A good model:

Every assumption a model makes:

Data change by the same amount each step. Best model:

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