Parabola Vertex: Finding the Center
Grade 10th Grade · Math · 45 min· Ap Precalculus
What's Included
Learning Objective
I can determine the vertex of a parabola by completing the square.
Warm-Up Video
Khan Academy · 6:14
Completing the square for vertex form | Quadratic equations | Algebra I | Khan Academy
Guided Notes
3 key concepts
- 1
The vertex form of a quadratic equation is y = A(x - B)² + C, where the vertex of the parabola is the point (B, C).
- 2
To complete the square, factor out the coefficient of the x² term, then add and subtract (b/2)² inside the parentheses to create a perfect square trinomial.
- 3
After completing the square and simplifying, the x-coordinate of the vertex is the value that makes the squared term equal to 0, and the y-coordinate is the constant term in the vertex form.
Practice Questions
10 questions · Multiple choice & Short answer
Exit Ticket
Quick comprehension check
“Determine the vertex of the parabola y = 2x² + 8x - 3 using either the formula x = -b/2a or by completing the square. Show all your steps.”
Complete Lesson Package
Get all 3 ready-to-use resources:
