STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

This is a cooperative learning exercise.

1. Each student is given a function definition and asked to graph the function, and then to write a non-mathematical description of the appearance of the function.

2. Students form pairs, with each partner having the same function. The partnership refines the written description, and signs it.

3. Pairs exchange written descriptions (but not functions) with a nearby pair (a pair which started with a different function). Pairs attempt to find the function that fits the description. This may be an iterative process. When a pair proposes a function, the description writers may respond

You've got it.

That can't be the function because it doesn't satisfy a particular aspect of the description.

Ouch! We have to modify the description!

Additional rounds give the students practice matching functions to descriptions.