Curve Sketching

369 questions · 76 question types identified

Find stationary points of polynomial

Questions requiring differentiation to find coordinates of maximum and minimum points on polynomial curves, often with justification of nature.

19
5.1% of questions
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2 In this question you must show detailed reasoning. Find the values of \(x\) for which the gradient of the curve \(y = \frac { 2 } { 3 } x ^ { 3 } + \frac { 5 } { 2 } x ^ { 2 } - 3 x + 7\) is positive. Give your answer in set notation.
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Sketch multiple separate transformations

Questions that provide a sketch of y = f(x) and ask students to sketch two or more translations on separate diagrams (e.g., both y = f(x)+a and y = f(x+b)), testing understanding of different translation types independently.

15
4.1% of questions
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  1. \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x + 1 )\),
  2. \(y = 2 \mathrm { f } ( x )\),
  3. \(y = \mathrm { f } \left( \frac { 1 } { 2 } x \right)\). On each diagram show clearly the coordinates of all the points where the curve meets the axes.
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Solve |f(x)| > k using sketch

Questions that require sketching y = |f(x)| and then solving an inequality of the form |f(x)| > k or |f(x)| < k for a specific constant k.

15
4.1% of questions
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1 Let \(a\) be a positive constant.
  1. Sketch the curve with equation \(\mathrm { y } = \frac { \mathrm { ax } } { \mathrm { x } + 7 }\).
  2. Sketch the curve with equation \(y = \left| \frac { a x } { x + 7 } \right|\) and find the set of values of \(x\) for which \(\left| \frac { a x } { x + 7 } \right| > \frac { a } { 2 }\).
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Translation with root finding

Questions where a cubic is given in factored form, expanded, then translated (horizontally or vertically), and students must find roots or factors of the transformed function.

12
3.3% of questions
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3 You are given that \(\mathrm { f } ( x ) = ( 2 x - 3 ) ( x + 2 ) ( x + 4 )\).
  1. Sketch the graph of \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x )\).
  2. State the roots of \(\mathrm { f } ( x - 2 ) = 0\).
  3. You are also given that \(\mathrm { g } ( x ) = \mathrm { f } ( x ) + 15\).
    (A) Show that \(\mathrm { g } ( x ) = 2 x ^ { 3 } + 9 x ^ { 2 } - 2 x - 9\).
    (B) Show that \(\mathrm { g } ( 1 ) = 0\) and hence factorise \(\mathrm { g } ( x )\) completely.
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Tangent and normal to curve

Questions requiring finding equations of tangent or normal lines to a curve at specified points, often involving differentiation.

11
3.0% of questions
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10 A curve has equation \(y = ( x + 2 ) ^ { 2 } ( 2 x - 3 )\).
  1. Sketch the curve, giving the coordinates of all points of intersection with the axes.
  2. Find an equation of the tangent to the curve at the point where \(x = - 1\). Give your answer in the form \(a x + b y + c = 0\). \section*{OCR}
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Single transformation application

Questions asking for the equation after applying one specific transformation (translation, reflection, or stretch) to a given curve.

9
2.4% of questions
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1 Find the values of \(P , Q , R\) and \(S\) in the identity \(3 x ^ { 3 } + 18 x ^ { 2 } + P x + 31 \equiv Q ( x + R ) ^ { 3 } + S\).
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Two stretches from same function

Questions asking to sketch both y = af(x) and y = f(bx) starting from the same given function f(x), requiring direct application of vertical and horizontal stretch transformations.

9
2.4% of questions
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  1. \(y = \mathrm { f } ( - x )\)
  2. \(y = \mathrm { f } ( 2 x )\) On each diagram, show clearly the coordinates of any points of intersection of the curve with the two coordinate axes and the coordinates of the stationary points.
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Area between curve and line

Questions asking to find the area of a shaded region bounded by a curve and a straight line, typically requiring integration.

8
2.2% of questions
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  1. the possible values of \(n _ { 1 }\) and \(n _ { 2 }\),
  2. the exact value of the smallest possible area between \(C _ { 1 }\) and \(C _ { 2 }\), simplifying your answer,
    (8)
  3. the largest value of \(x\) for which the gradients of the two curves can be the same. Leave your answer in surd form.
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Curve from derivative information

Questions providing f'(x) and additional information (like a point on the curve or range), asking to find f(x) or sketch the curve.

8
2.2% of questions
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10 The diagram below shows the curve \(y = f ( x )\).
\includegraphics[max width=\textwidth, alt={}, center]{60e1e785-c34b-48ef-a63f-13a25fee186e-07_942_679_1500_242} Sketch the graph of the gradient function, \(y = f ^ { \prime } ( x )\), on the copy of the diagram in the Printed Answer Booklet.
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Rational curve intersections

Questions involving sketching a rational function (reciprocal or reciprocal squared) with another curve (polynomial or linear) to determine number of intersections or solve equations.

8
2.2% of questions
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4. (a) Sketch on the same diagram the curves \(y = x ^ { 2 } - 4 x\) and \(y = - \frac { 1 } { x }\).
(b) State, with a reason, the number of real solutions to the equation $$x ^ { 2 } - 4 x + \frac { 1 } { x } = 0 .$$
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Graphical equation solving with auxiliary line

Questions where a given curve is sketched and a specific straight line must be drawn to solve an equation graphically by finding intersection points.

8
2.2% of questions
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12
  1. Sketch the graph of \(y = x ( x - 3 ) ^ { 2 }\).
  2. Show that the equation \(x ( x - 3 ) ^ { 2 } = 2\) can be expressed as \(x ^ { 3 } - 6 x ^ { 2 } + 9 x - 2 = 0\).
  3. Show that \(x = 2\) is one root of this equation and find the other two roots, expressing your answers in surd form. Show the location of these roots on your sketch graph in part (i).
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Linear modelling problems

Questions where the real-world scenario is modelled by a linear relationship (y = mx + c or direct/inverse proportionality), requiring interpretation of parameters or finding specific values.

8
2.2% of questions
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12 Explain why the smaller regular hexagon in Fig. C1 has perimeter 6.
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Optimization and assignment problems

Questions involving discrete optimization scenarios such as worker-task assignment, route planning, or resource allocation using operations research techniques rather than curve analysis.

8
2.2% of questions
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4 Four workers, \(A , B , C\) and \(D\), are to be allocated, one to each of the four jobs, \(W , X , Y\) and \(Z\). The table shows how much each worker would charge for each job.
\includegraphics[max width=\textwidth, alt={}, center]{9c9b1a42-8d16-446a-85a1-4c08e5e368be-3_401_846_1745_642}
  1. What is the total cost of the four jobs if \(A\) does \(W , B\) does \(X , C\) does \(Y\) and \(D\) does \(Z\) ?
  2. Apply the Hungarian algorithm to the table, reducing rows first. Show all your working and explain each step. Give the resulting allocation and the total cost of the four jobs with this allocation.
  3. What problem does the Hungarian algorithm solve?
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Sketch rational function from transformation

Questions asking to sketch a rational function by applying a transformation to a standard rational function (e.g., translating 1/x).

8
2.2% of questions
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1 Sketch the graph of \(y = \mathrm { e } ^ { a x } - 1\) where \(a\) is a positive constant.
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Basic factored form sketching

Questions asking to sketch a polynomial curve given explicitly in factored form like y = (x-a)(x-b)(x-c) or y = (x-a)²(x-b), showing intercepts and shape, without additional transformations or follow-up parts.

8
2.2% of questions
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1 Sketch the graph of \(y = 9 - x ^ { 2 }\).
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Rational functions with parameters

Questions involving rational functions with unknown constants (parameters like λ, a, p) where analysis depends on the parameter values or requires finding parameter values from given conditions.

8
2.2% of questions
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7 The curve \(C\) has equation $$y = \lambda x + \frac { x } { x - 2 }$$ where \(\lambda\) is a non-zero constant. Find the equations of the asymptotes of \(C\). Show that \(C\) has no turning points if \(\lambda < 0\). Sketch \(C\) in the case \(\lambda = - 1\), stating the coordinates of the intersections with the axes.
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Polynomial intersection with algebra

Questions requiring sketching two polynomial curves and then finding intersection points algebraically by solving the resulting equation.

8
2.2% of questions
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10. (a) On the same axes sketch the graphs of the curves with equations
  1. \(y = x ^ { 2 } ( x - 2 )\),
  2. \(y = x ( 6 - x )\),
    and indicate on your sketches the coordinates of all the points where the curves cross the \(x\)-axis.
    (b) Use algebra to find the coordinates of the points where the graphs intersect.
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Logarithmic graph for power law

Questions where variables satisfy y = Ax^p or similar, with a graph of ln(y) against ln(x) given, requiring finding constants A and p from the linear graph.

7
1.9% of questions
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2
\includegraphics[max width=\textwidth, alt={}, center]{9275a3ed-8820-481b-9fc8-28c21b81dbed-2_559_789_513_678} Two variable quantities \(x\) and \(y\) are related by the equation \(y = A x ^ { n }\), where \(A\) and \(n\) are constants. The diagram shows the result of plotting \(\ln y\) against \(\ln x\) for four pairs of values of \(x\) and \(y\). Use the diagram to estimate the values of \(A\) and \(n\).
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Solutions from graphical analysis

Questions asking to determine the number of solutions or range of parameter values by analyzing a given graph, using horizontal line intersection counting.

7
1.9% of questions
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6.
\includegraphics[max width=\textwidth, alt={}, center]{00364339-8108-4031-8e67-6100810e8297-2_549_885_251_370} The diagram shows the graph of \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x )\).
  1. Write down the number of solutions that exist for the equation
    1. \(\mathrm { f } ( x ) = 1\),
    2. \(\mathrm { f } ( x ) = - x\).
  2. Labelling the axes in a similar way, sketch on separate diagrams the graphs of
    1. \(\quad y = \mathrm { f } ( x - 2 )\),
    2. \(y = \mathrm { f } ( 2 x )\).
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Simple rational function analysis

Questions asking to find asymptotes and stationary points for a given rational function, typically with straightforward sketching or verification tasks.

7
1.9% of questions
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11
  1. Curve \(C\) has equation $$y = \frac { x ^ { 2 } + p x - q } { x ^ { 2 } - r }$$ where \(p , q\) and \(r\) are positive constants.
    Write down the equations of its asymptotes.
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Vertical stretch y = af(x)

Questions asking to sketch y = af(x) where a is a constant multiplier, involving vertical stretches or compressions of the given curve.

7
1.9% of questions
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2
  1. On separate diagrams, sketch the graphs of
    1. \(\mathrm { y } = \frac { 1 } { \mathrm { x } }\),
    2. \(y = x ^ { 4 }\).
  2. Describe a transformation that transforms the curve \(y = x ^ { 3 }\) to the curve \(y = 8 x ^ { 3 }\).
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Polynomial with line intersection

Questions involving sketching a polynomial curve and a straight line, then finding their intersection points or analyzing their relationship.

7
1.9% of questions
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5. The curve \(C\) has equation \(y = x ( 5 - x )\) and the line \(L\) has equation \(2 y = 5 x + 4\)
  1. Use algebra to show that \(C\) and \(L\) do not intersect.
  2. In the space on page 11, sketch \(C\) and \(L\) on the same diagram, showing the coordinates of the points at which \(C\) and \(L\) meet the axes.
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Reflections

Questions asking to sketch y = -f(x), y = f(-x), involving reflections in the x-axis or y-axis.

6
1.6% of questions
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3
  1. Sketch the curve \(y = x ^ { 3 }\).
  2. Describe a transformation that transforms the curve \(y = x ^ { 3 }\) to the curve \(y = - x ^ { 3 }\).
  3. The curve \(y = x ^ { 3 }\) is translated by \(p\) units, parallel to the \(x\)-axis. State the equation of the curve after it has been transformed.
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Quadratic modelling problems

Questions where the real-world scenario is modelled by a quadratic equation (parabola), typically involving projectile motion, arches, or optimization, requiring analysis of turning points, intercepts, or specific values.

6
1.6% of questions
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8. \begin{figure}[h]
\includegraphics[alt={},max width=\textwidth]{f9dcb521-6aaa-4496-86e8-2dcd07838e10-14_551_1479_388_365} \captionsetup{labelformat=empty} \caption{Figure 2}
\end{figure} In a competition, competitors are going to kick a ball over the barrier walls. The height of the barrier walls are each 9 metres high and 50 cm wide and stand on horizontal ground. The figure 2 is a graph showing the motion of a ball. The ball reaches a maximum height of 12 metres and hits the ground at a point 80 metres from where its kicked.
a. Find a quadratic equation linking \(Y\) with \(x\) that models this situation. The ball pass over the barrier walls.
b. Use your equation to deduce that the ball should be placed about 20 m from the first barrier wall.
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Single transformation between given equations

Questions that provide two explicit curve equations and ask to describe the single transformation mapping one to the other, where both equations are fully given.

6
1.6% of questions
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5 State the transformation which maps the graph of \(y = x ^ { 2 } + 5\) onto the graph of \(y = 3 x ^ { 2 } + 15\).
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Single transformation sketches

Questions asking students to sketch one or two simple transformations (e.g., f(x+a), af(x), f(ax)) separately, typically with a smooth curve and turning points to track.

6
1.6% of questions
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  1. \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x + 1 )\),
  2. \(y = \mathrm { f } ( 2 x )\). On each diagram, show clearly the coordinates of the maximum point, and of each point at which the curve crosses the coordinate axes.
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Sketch single transformation from given curve

Questions that provide a sketch of y = f(x) and ask students to sketch a single horizontal or vertical translation (e.g., y = f(x+a) or y = f(x)+a), requiring identification of how key features transform.

6
1.6% of questions
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5. \begin{figure}[h]
\includegraphics[alt={},max width=\textwidth]{871f5957-180d-4379-88ce-186432f57bad-06_988_1158_285_390} \captionsetup{labelformat=empty} \caption{Figure 1}
\end{figure} Figure 1 shows a sketch of the curve \(C\) with equation \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x )\). There is a maximum at \(( 0,0 )\), a minimum at \(( 2 , - 1 )\) and \(C\) passes through \(( 3,0 )\). On separate diagrams sketch the curve with equation
  1. \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x + 3 )\),
  2. \(y = \mathrm { f } ( - x )\). On each diagram show clearly the coordinates of the maximum point, the minimum point and any points of intersection with the \(x\)-axis.
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Expand from factored form

Questions where the function is given in factored form and students must sketch first (possibly using the factored form directly), then expand to polynomial form.

6
1.6% of questions
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4
  1. Expand \(( x - 2 ) ^ { 2 } ( x + 1 )\), simplifying your answer.
  2. Sketch the curve \(y = ( x - 2 ) ^ { 2 } ( x + 1 )\), indicating the coordinates of all intercepts with the axes.
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Identify transformation from two graphs

Questions that show two graphs (or multiple graphs) and ask students to identify or state the transformation that maps one to the other, or to state the equation of a transformed graph.

6
1.6% of questions
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3 \begin{figure}[h]
\includegraphics[alt={},max width=\textwidth]{2bdf241f-4538-4227-ba00-fe843d1b3aca-2_830_1393_959_334} \captionsetup{labelformat=empty} \caption{Fig. 3}
\end{figure} Fig. 3 shows sketches of three graphs, A, B and C. The equation of graph A is \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x )\). State the equation of
  1. graph B ,
  2. graph C.
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Curve with parametric or implicit features

Questions involving curves defined by y² = f(x) or similar implicit/parametric forms, requiring sketching with attention to symmetry and domain restrictions.

5
1.4% of questions
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2
\includegraphics[max width=\textwidth, alt={}, center]{63a316f6-1c18-4224-930f-0b58112c9f71-2_341_1043_466_552} The diagram shows the curve \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x )\). The curve has a maximum point at ( 0,5 ) and crosses the \(x\)-axis at \(( - 2,0 ) , ( 3,0 )\) and \(( 4,0 )\). Sketch the curve \(y ^ { 2 } = \mathrm { f } ( x )\), showing clearly the coordinates of any turning points and of any points where this curve crosses the axes.
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Parameter values from curve properties

Questions asking to find parameter values given that a curve has specific properties like tangency, number of stationary points, or asymptotes, requiring algebraic or calculus-based analysis.

5
1.4% of questions
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6. The curve \(C\) has equation \(y = \frac { 4 } { x } + k\), where \(k\) is a positive constant.
  1. Sketch a graph of \(C\), stating the equation of the horizontal asymptote and the coordinates of the point of intersection with the \(x\)-axis. The line with equation \(y = 10 - 2 x\) is a tangent to \(C\).
  2. Find the possible values for \(k\).
    \(\_\_\_\_\) -
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Range restriction problems

Questions requiring proof that y cannot take certain values or lies within a specific range, often using discriminant analysis or algebraic manipulation of y = k intersections.

5
1.4% of questions
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5
  1. Find the equations of the asymptotes of the curve with equation $$y = \frac { x ^ { 2 } + 3 x + 3 } { x + 2 }$$
  2. Show that \(y\) cannot take values between - 3 and 1 .
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Sketch transformations from algebraic function

Questions that give an explicit algebraic function (like f(x) = x³ - 6x² + 5x + 12 or f(x) = ln x) and ask students to sketch the original and/or transformed versions, requiring both algebraic manipulation and transformation application.

5
1.4% of questions
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5
  1. State the period of the function \(\mathrm { f } ( x ) = 1 + \cos 2 x\), where \(x\) is in degrees.
  2. State a sequence of two geometrical transformations which maps the curve \(y = \cos x\) onto the curve \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x )\).
  3. Sketch the graph of \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x )\) for \(- 180 ^ { \circ } < x < 180 ^ { \circ }\).
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Sketch rational with linear numerator

Rational functions with linear numerator and linear denominator, typically having horizontal and vertical asymptotes found directly without division (e.g., y = (3x-1)/(x+2), y = (3x-5)/(2x+4)).

5
1.4% of questions
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7 A curve has equation $$y = \frac { 3 x - 1 } { x + 2 }$$
  1. Write down the equations of the two asymptotes to the curve.
  2. Sketch the curve, indicating the coordinates of the points where the curve intersects the coordinate axes.
  3. Hence, or otherwise, solve the inequality $$0 < \frac { 3 x - 1 } { x + 2 } < 3$$
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Sketch transformed curve from description

Questions that provide a graph of y = f(x) with key features marked and ask students to sketch a specific transformation (like y = f(x+a) or y = af(x)) on separate axes.

5
1.4% of questions
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4. \begin{figure}[h]
\includegraphics[alt={},max width=\textwidth]{3cf69966-e825-4ff0-a6e8-c5dfdc92c53f-08_604_1207_251_370} \captionsetup{labelformat=empty} \caption{Figure 1}
\end{figure} Figure 1 shows a sketch of a curve with equation \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x )\)
The curve has a minimum at \(P ( - 1,0 )\) and a maximum at \(Q \left( \frac { 3 } { 2 } , 2 \right)\)
The line with equation \(y = 1\) is the only asymptote to the curve. On separate diagrams sketch the curves with equation
  1. \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x ) - 2\)
  2. \(y = \mathrm { f } ( - x )\) On each sketch you must clearly state
    • the coordinates of the maximum and minimum points
    • the equation of the asymptote
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Deduce inequality solutions from sketch

Questions asking students to use the provided sketch to deduce values of x satisfying inequalities (e.g., f(x) > 0, f(x) < 0) by reading directly from the graph.

5
1.4% of questions
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10. \begin{figure}[h]
\includegraphics[alt={},max width=\textwidth]{bb21001f-fe68-4776-992d-ede1aae233d7-26_902_896_248_587} \captionsetup{labelformat=empty} \caption{Figure 4}
\end{figure} Figure 4 shows a sketch of part of the curve \(C\) with equation \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x )\), where $$f ( x ) = ( 3 x + 20 ) ( x + 6 ) ( 2 x - 3 )$$
  1. Use the given information to state the values of \(x\) for which $$f ( x ) > 0$$
  2. Expand \(( 3 x + 20 ) ( x + 6 ) ( 2 x - 3 )\), writing your answer as a polynomial in simplest form. The straight line \(l\) is the tangent to \(C\) at the point where \(C\) cuts the \(y\)-axis.
    Given that \(l\) cuts \(C\) at the point \(P\), as shown in Figure 4,
  3. find, using algebra, the \(x\) coordinate of \(P\)
    (Solutions based on calculator technology are not acceptable.)
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Solve transformed function equations

Questions asking students to solve equations involving transformations of the given function (e.g., f(1/4 x) = 0, f(x-p) = 0) by relating roots to the original sketch.

5
1.4% of questions
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10. The curve \(C _ { 1 }\) has equation \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x )\), where $$f ( x ) = ( 4 x - 3 ) ( x - 5 ) ^ { 2 }$$
  1. Sketch \(C _ { 1 }\) showing the coordinates of any point where the curve touches or crosses the coordinate axes.
  2. Hence or otherwise
    1. find the values of \(x\) for which \(\mathrm { f } \left( \frac { 1 } { 4 } x \right) = 0\)
    2. find the value of the constant \(p\) such that the curve with equation \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x ) + p\) passes through the origin. A second curve \(C _ { 2 }\) has equation \(y = \mathrm { g } ( x )\), where \(\mathrm { g } ( x ) = \mathrm { f } ( x + 1 )\)
    1. Find, in simplest form, \(\mathrm { g } ( x )\). You may leave your answer in a factorised form.
    2. Hence, or otherwise, find the \(y\) intercept of curve \(C _ { 2 }\)
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Iterative formula with graphical justification

Questions asking to show graphically that an equation has a certain number of roots, then use an iterative formula to find a root to specified accuracy.

4
1.1% of questions
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4
  1. Show by means of suitable sketch graphs that the equation $$( x - 2 ) ^ { 4 } = x + 16$$ has exactly 2 real roots.
  2. State the value of the smaller root.
  3. Use the iterative formula $$x _ { n + 1 } = 2 + \sqrt [ 4 ] { x _ { n } + 16 }$$ with a suitable starting value, to find the larger root correct to 3 decimal places.
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Linear programming graphical method

Questions requiring graphical solution of linear programming problems by sketching constraint lines and finding optimal vertices of the feasible region.

4
1.1% of questions
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3 Solve the following LP problem graphically.
Maximise \(2 x + 3 y\)
subject to \(\quad x + y \leqslant 11\) $$\begin{aligned} 3 x + 5 y & \leqslant 39
x + 6 y & \leqslant 39 . \end{aligned}$$
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Sketch with inequalities or regions

Questions asking to sketch a factored polynomial curve and then use the sketch to solve inequalities or identify solution regions.

4
1.1% of questions
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5
  1. Sketch the curve \(y = \mathrm { g } ( x )\) where $$g ( x ) = ( x + 2 ) ( x - 1 ) ^ { 2 }$$ 5
  2. Hence, solve \(\mathrm { g } ( x ) \leq 0\)
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Multiple transformations including squared

Questions that sketch a rational function and then require sketching both y = |f(x)| and y² = f(x) or other multiple transformations.

4
1.1% of questions
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7 The curve \(C\) has equation \(\mathrm { y } = \frac { \mathrm { x } ^ { 2 } + 2 \mathrm { x } + 1 } { \mathrm { x } - 3 }\).
  1. Find the equations of the asymptotes of \(C\).
  2. Find the coordinates of the turning points on \(C\).
  3. Sketch \(C\).
  4. Sketch the curves with equations \(y = \left| \frac { x ^ { 2 } + 2 x + 1 } { x - 3 } \right|\) and \(y ^ { 2 } = \frac { x ^ { 2 } + 2 x + 1 } { x - 3 }\) on a single diagram, clearly identifying each curve. If you use the following page to complete the answer to any question, the question number must be clearly shown.
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Multiple transformations in sequence

Questions asking for the equation after applying two or more transformations in a specified order to a given curve.

4
1.1% of questions
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4
  1. State the period of the function \(\mathrm { f } ( x ) = 1 + \cos 2 x\), where \(x\) is in degrees.
  2. State a sequence of two geometrical transformations which maps the curve \(y = \cos x\) onto the curve \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x )\).
  3. Sketch the graph of \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x )\) for \(- 180 ^ { \circ } < x < 180 ^ { \circ }\).
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Horizontal translation of factored polynomial

Questions where a factored or expanded polynomial is sketched, then a horizontal translation is applied by replacing x with (x - a), requiring students to find new roots or describe the transformation.

4
1.1% of questions
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4 You are given that \(\mathrm { f } ( x ) = ( x + 2 ) ^ { 2 } ( x - 3 )\).
  1. Sketch the graph of \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x )\).
  2. State the values of \(x\) which satisfy \(\mathrm { f } ( x + 3 ) = 0\).
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Reflection or vertical transformation

Questions involving sketching a polynomial and then applying a reflection (such as y → -y or x → -x) or vertical translation, requiring analysis of how the curve changes under these transformations.

4
1.1% of questions
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3
  1. Sketch the curve \(y = ( 1 + x ) ( 2 - x ) ( 3 + x )\), giving the coordinates of all points of intersection with the axes.
  2. Describe the transformation that transforms the curve \(y = ( 1 + x ) ( 2 - x ) ( 3 + x )\) to the curve \(y = ( 1 - x ) ( 2 + x ) ( 3 - x )\).
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Find constants from sketch features

Questions showing a sketch with marked features (intercepts, turning points) where students must determine unknown constants in a partially given polynomial equation.

4
1.1% of questions
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2. \begin{figure}[h]
\includegraphics[alt={},max width=\textwidth]{624e9e2f-b6b8-47ce-accc-31dcd5f0554e-04_903_1148_123_399} \captionsetup{labelformat=empty} \caption{Figure 1}
\end{figure} Figure 1 shows a sketch of the curve with equation \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x )\), where \(x \in \mathbb { R }\) and \(\mathrm { f } ( x )\) is a polynomial. The curve passes through the origin and touches the \(x\)-axis at the point \(( 3,0 )\) There is a maximum turning point at \(( 1,2 )\) and a minimum turning point at \(( 3,0 )\) On separate diagrams, sketch the curve with equation
  1. \(y = 3 f ( 2 x )\)
  2. \(y = \mathrm { f } ( - x ) - 1\) On each sketch, show clearly the coordinates of
    • the point where the curve crosses the \(y\)-axis
    • any maximum or minimum turning points
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Completing square from standard form

Questions where a quadratic in standard form ax²+bx+c must be converted to completed square form a(x+p)²+q to find the vertex coordinates.

4
1.1% of questions
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2
  1. Find the transformation which maps the curve \(y = x ^ { 2 }\) to the curve \(y = x ^ { 2 } + 8 x - 7\).
  2. Write down the coordinates of the turning point of \(y = x ^ { 2 } + 8 x - 7\).
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Factorise then sketch

Questions where the function is given in expanded polynomial form and students must first factorise it before sketching the curve.

4
1.1% of questions
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4. $$f ( x ) = 4 x - 3 x ^ { 2 } - x ^ { 3 }$$
  1. Fully factorise \(4 x - 3 x ^ { 2 } - x ^ { 3 }\).
  2. Sketch the curve \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x )\), showing the coordinates of any points of intersection with the coordinate axes.
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Multiple transformation descriptions

Questions where students must describe or apply multiple distinct transformations (e.g., translation, reflection, or stretch) and sketch the results on separate diagrams.

4
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5
  1. Sketch the curve \(y = x ^ { 3 } + 2\).
  2. Sketch the curve \(y = 2 \sqrt { x }\).
  3. Describe a transformation that transforms the curve \(y = 2 \sqrt { x }\) to the curve \(y = 3 \sqrt { x }\).
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Sketch absolute value of function

Questions asking to sketch y = |f(x)| or related absolute value transformations, given the original curve or its equation.

3
0.8% of questions
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7. $$f ( x ) = x ^ { 4 } - 4 x - 8$$
  1. Show that there is a root of \(\mathrm { f } ( x ) = 0\) in the interval \([ - 2 , - 1 ]\).
  2. Find the coordinates of the turning point on the graph of \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x )\).
  3. Given that \(\mathrm { f } ( x ) = ( x - 2 ) \left( x ^ { 3 } + a x ^ { 2 } + b x + c \right)\), find the values of the constants, \(a , b\) and \(c\).
  4. In the space provided on page 21, sketch the graph of \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x )\).
  5. Hence sketch the graph of \(y = | \mathrm { f } ( x ) |\).
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Range from trigonometric functions

Questions asking for the range of trigonometric functions (sine, cosine) with transformations, using amplitude and vertical shift analysis.

3
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4 The function f is defined by f : \(x \mapsto 5 - 3 \sin 2 x\) for \(0 \leqslant x \leqslant \pi\).
  1. Find the range of f .
  2. Sketch the graph of \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x )\).
  3. State, with a reason, whether f has an inverse.
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Polynomial with rational/modulus curves

Questions requiring sketching a polynomial alongside a rational function, modulus function, or piecewise function to analyze intersections.

3
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  1. (a) Given that \(k\) is a positive constant such that \(0 < k < 4\) sketch, on separate axes, the graphs of
    1. \(y = ( 2 x - k ) ( x + 4 ) ^ { 2 }\)
    2. \(y = \frac { k } { x ^ { 2 } }\)
      showing the coordinates of any points where the graphs cross or meet the coordinate axes, leaving coordinates in terms of \(k\), where appropriate.
      (b) State, with a reason, the number of roots of the equation
    $$( 2 x - k ) ( x + 4 ) ^ { 2 } = \frac { k } { x ^ { 2 } }$$
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Combined transformation sketches

Questions asking students to sketch a composition of multiple transformations applied together (e.g., -4f(x+3), f(|x|+1)) requiring students to apply transformations in sequence.

3
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2
\includegraphics[max width=\textwidth, alt={}, center]{774bb427-5392-45d3-8e4e-47d08fb8a792-02_538_1061_388_541} The diagram shows the curve with equation \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x )\). It is given that \(\mathrm { f } ( - 7 ) = 0\) and that there are stationary points at \(( - 2 , - 6 )\) and \(( 0,0 )\). Sketch the curve with equation \(y = - 4 \mathrm { f } ( x + 3 )\), indicating the coordinates of the stationary points.
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Sketch then find derivative/gradient/tangent

Questions that ask to sketch the curve and then find the derivative, gradient at a point, or equation of a tangent line.

3
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5. The curve \(C\) with equation \(y = ( 2 - x ) ( 3 - x ) ^ { 2 }\) crosses the \(x\)-axis at the point \(A\) and touches the \(x\)-axis at the point \(B\).
  1. Sketch the curve \(C\), showing the coordinates of \(A\) and \(B\).
  2. Show that the tangent to \(C\) at \(A\) has the equation $$x + y = 2 .$$
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Sketch rational with quadratic numerator

Rational functions with quadratic numerator and linear or quadratic denominator, requiring polynomial division or algebraic manipulation to find oblique or horizontal asymptotes (e.g., y = x²/(2x+1), y = x²/(x-2), y = (x²-3x+6)/(1-x)).

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6 The curve \(C\) has equation \(y = \frac { x ^ { 2 } } { x - 2 }\). Find the equations of the asymptotes of \(C\). Find the coordinates of the turning points on \(C\). Draw a sketch of \(C\).
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Sketch rational with reciprocal terms

Rational functions expressed as sum of polynomial and reciprocal terms, where asymptotes are found by considering behavior as x approaches infinity or zero (e.g., y = x/3 + 12/x, y = x - 5 + 1/(x-2), y = 1 + 4/(x(x-3))).

3
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4 In this question you must show detailed reasoning.
A curve has equation \(y = x - 5 + \frac { 1 } { x - 2 }\). The curve is shown in Fig. 4. \begin{figure}[h]
\includegraphics[alt={},max width=\textwidth]{31bc8bde-8d37-4e97-94e2-e3e73aab55e9-5_723_844_424_612} \captionsetup{labelformat=empty} \caption{Fig. 4}
\end{figure}
  1. Determine the coordinates of the stationary points on the curve.
  2. Determine the nature of each stationary point.
  3. Write down the equation of the vertical asymptote.
  4. Deduce the set of values of \(x\) for which the curve is concave upwards.
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Finding quadratic from vertex information

Questions where the vertex coordinates and another point are given, requiring construction of the quadratic function in vertex form then possibly expanding.

3
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  1. The curve \(C _ { 1 }\) has equation \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x )\).
Given that
  • \(\mathrm { f } ( x )\) is a quadratic expression
  • \(C _ { 1 }\) has a maximum turning point at \(( 2,20 )\)
  • \(C _ { 1 }\) passes through the origin
    1. sketch a graph of \(C _ { 1 }\) showing the coordinates of any points where \(C _ { 1 }\) cuts the coordinate axes,
    2. find an expression for \(\mathrm { f } ( x )\).
The curve \(C _ { 2 }\) has equation \(y = x \left( x ^ { 2 } - 4 \right)\)
Curve \(C _ { 1 }\) and \(C _ { 2 }\) meet at the origin, and at the points \(P\) and \(Q\)
Given that the \(x\) coordinate of the point \(P\) is negative,
  • using algebra and showing all stages of your working, find the coordinates of \(P\)
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    Trigonometric curve intersections

    Questions involving sketching a trigonometric curve (sine or cosine) and another curve (typically linear) to determine number of intersections or solutions.

    2
    0.5% of questions
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    7 A curve has equation \(y = 2 + 3 \sin \frac { 1 } { 2 } x\) for \(0 \leqslant x \leqslant 4 \pi\).
    1. State greatest and least values of \(y\).
    2. Sketch the curve.
      \includegraphics[max width=\textwidth, alt={}, center]{77f27b11-b931-481f-b4ef-5e549eff8086-09_1127_1219_904_495}
    3. State the number of solutions of the equation $$2 + 3 \sin \frac { 1 } { 2 } x = 5 - 2 x$$ for \(0 \leqslant x \leqslant 4 \pi\).
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    Domain restrictions from monotonicity

    Questions asking to find parameter values or domain restrictions that ensure a function is monotonic (increasing/decreasing), typically using derivative sign analysis.

    2
    0.5% of questions
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    4 The function f is such that \(\mathrm { f } ( x ) = x ^ { 3 } - 3 x ^ { 2 } - 9 x + 2\) for \(x > n\), where \(n\) is an integer. It is given that f is an increasing function. Find the least possible value of \(n\).
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    Find coordinates after transformation

    Questions that ask students to determine the new coordinates of specific points after one or more transformations are applied, without necessarily sketching the full curve.

    2
    0.5% of questions
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    1 The point \(\mathrm { R } ( 6 , - 3 )\) is on the curve \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x )\).
    1. Find the coordinates of the image of R when the curve is transformed to \(y = \frac { 1 } { 2 } \mathrm { f } ( x )\).
    2. Find the coordinates of the image of R when the curve is transformed to \(y = \mathrm { f } ( 3 x )\).
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    Even/odd function verification

    Questions asking students to prove algebraically whether a given function is even, odd, or neither, sometimes with accompanying sketches.

    2
    0.5% of questions
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    2
    1. Show that \(\mathrm { f } ( x ) = \left| x ^ { 3 } \right|\) is an even function.
    2. It is suggested that the function \(\mathrm { g } ( x ) = ( x - 1 ) ^ { 3 }\) is odd. Prove that this is false.
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    Solve f(x) > g(x) using sketch

    Questions requiring sketching rational function(s) and solving inequalities by comparing f(x) with another function g(x) (linear or otherwise), typically finding intersection points.

    1
    0.3% of questions
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    10
    1. Write down the equations of the asymptotes of \(C\)
      10
    2. The line \(L\) has equation $$y = - \frac { 2 } { 5 } x + 2$$ 10
      1. Draw the line \(L\) on Figure 1 10
    3. (ii) Hence, or otherwise, solve the inequality $$\frac { 2 x - 10 } { 3 x - 5 } \leq - \frac { 2 } { 5 } x + 2$$
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    Transformation effect on key points

    Questions that ask for the coordinates of a transformed point (typically a minimum or maximum) after applying a given transformation to a curve.

    1
    0.3% of questions
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    4 The curve \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x )\) has a minimum point at \(( 3,5 )\).
    State the coordinates of the corresponding minimum point on the graph of
    1. \(y = 3 \mathrm { f } ( x )\),
    2. \(y = \mathrm { f } ( 2 x )\).
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    Point transformation under mapping

    Questions asking for the coordinates of a transformed point when a curve undergoes a specified transformation, rather than the equation itself.

    1
    0.3% of questions
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    1. The point \(P ( - 2 , - 5 )\) lies on the curve with equation \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x ) , \quad x \in \mathbb { R }\)
    Find the point to which \(P\) is mapped, when the curve with equation \(y = \mathrm { f } ( x )\) is transformed to the curve with equation
    1. \(y = f ( x ) + 2\)
    2. \(y = | f ( x ) |\)
    3. \(y = 3 f ( x - 2 ) + 2\)
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    Sketch translations of standard functions

    Questions asking students to sketch translations of standard algebraic functions given by equation only (e.g., y = (x+3)² or y = (x+3)²+k), without a provided sketch, requiring knowledge of the base function shape.

    1
    0.3% of questions
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    3. On separate diagrams, sketch the graphs of
    1. \(y = ( x + 3 ) ^ { 2 }\),
    2. \(y = ( x + 3 ) ^ { 2 } + k\), where \(k\) is a positive constant. Show on each sketch the coordinates of each point at which the graph meets the axes.
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    Sketch |f(x)| only

    Questions that only require sketching y = |f(x)| without solving any inequality involving a constant k.

    1
    0.3% of questions
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    6 The curve \(C\) has equation \(\mathrm { y } = \frac { \mathrm { x } ^ { 2 } + \mathrm { x } - 1 } { \mathrm { x } - 1 }\).
    1. Find the equations of the asymptotes of \(C\).
    2. Show that there is no point on \(C\) for which \(1 < y < 5\).
    3. Find the coordinates of the intersections of \(C\) with the axes, and sketch \(C\).
    4. Sketch the curve with equation \(\mathrm { y } = \left| \frac { \mathrm { x } ^ { 2 } + \mathrm { x } - 1 } { \mathrm { x } - 1 } \right|\).
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    Sketch with |x| in function

    Questions where the absolute value is applied to x within the function (e.g., y = (|x|+1)/(|x|-1)) rather than to the entire function output.

    1
    0.3% of questions
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    1
    1. Sketch the curve with equation \(\mathrm { y } = \frac { \mathrm { x } + 1 } { \mathrm { x } - 1 }\).
    2. Sketch the curve with equation \(\mathrm { y } = \frac { | \mathrm { x } | + 1 } { | \mathrm { x } | - 1 }\) and find the set of values of x for which \(\frac { | \mathrm { x } | + 1 } { | \mathrm { x } | - 1 } < - 2\).
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    Absolute value transformations

    Questions asking to sketch y = |f(x)| or y = f(|x|), involving modulus/absolute value transformations.

    0
    0.0% of questions
    Exponential/logarithmic modelling problems

    Questions where the real-world scenario is modelled by exponential or logarithmic functions, typically involving growth or decay over time.

    0
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    Range from rational functions

    Questions asking for range or parameter values for rational functions (including reciprocal functions), using asymptote and transformation analysis.

    0
    0.0% of questions
    Horizontal stretch y = f(ax)

    Questions asking to sketch y = f(ax) where a is a constant inside the function argument, involving horizontal stretches or compressions of the given curve.

    0
    0.0% of questions
    Modulus transformation only

    Questions that sketch a rational function and then sketch y = |f(x)| only, without any squared or reciprocal variations.

    0
    0.0% of questions
    Sketch then solve related equations

    Questions that ask to sketch the curve and then solve equations involving transformations of the function or intersections with other curves/lines.

    0
    0.0% of questions
    Sketch then expand or factorise

    Questions that ask to sketch the curve and then manipulate the algebraic form by expanding to standard form or factorising completely.

    0
    0.0% of questions
    Vertex form already given

    Questions where the quadratic is already in completed square form a(x+p)²+q and the vertex can be read directly without algebraic manipulation.

    0
    0.0% of questions
    Find unknown coefficients from roots

    Questions providing some roots and asking students to find unknown coefficients in the polynomial by using factor theorem or expanding and comparing coefficients.

    0
    0.0% of questions
    Multiple transformations including stretches

    Questions asking to sketch multiple transformations where stretches (vertical or horizontal) are combined with other transformations like reflections or translations, not just pure stretches.

    0
    0.0% of questions