SV#2: Unit G Concepts 1-7 - Finding all parts and graphing a rational function

To graph a rational function, you find the asymptotes and the intercepts, plot a few points, and then sketch in the graph. Once you get the swing of things, rational functions are actually fairly simple to graph. Let's work through a problem. • When you draw your graph, make sure you show the graph continuing off to the sides. • Don't just stop at a point you've drawn, because this will make it look as though the graph actually stops at that point. • Warning: Your calculator may display a misleading graph for a given rational function. When you graph, you plot some points and then you connect them. Your calculator does the same thing. But you're smart enough to know not to cross a vertical asymptote. Your calculator isn't that intelligent.