The linear equation y = mx +b is called slope-intercept form. The slope of the line is m. The y-intercept of the line is b.
Process for graphing lines using slope-intercept form:
Step 1: Write the equation in slope-intercept form. Commonly referred to as "solving for y."
Step 2: Find the slope, or the value of m.
Step 3: Find the y-intercept, or the value of b.
Step 4: Plot the point for the y-intercept at (0, b). Locate a second point using the slope, or .
Example:
Graph the equation 2x + y = 4 using slope-intercept form.
Solution:
Solve for y. y = -2x + 4
Find the slope. m = -2
Find the y-intercept. b = 4 The point (0, 4) is the point at the y-intercept.
Plot the y-intercept and use the slope to find another point on the line.
Assignment:
Graph each equation using the slope and the y-intercept.
1. y = 3x + 1
2. y = -1/2 x + 4
3. y = 3 - x
4. y = 3x
5. y = -1/4 x
6. y = -x - 2
7. y = 4
8. y = -3
9. 12x + 3y = 6
10. 2x - 4y = -4
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