The Algebra Teacher\'s Guide to Reteaching Essential Concepts and Skills

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WORKSHEET 8.4: USING THE VERTICAL LINE TEST

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The vertical line test states that a relation is a function if no vertical line intersects the graph

of the relation at two or more points. Follow the steps below to apply the vertical line test:

1. Study the graph of the relation. Try to find two or more points where a vertical line can
   be drawn to intersect the graph.


2. If you cannot find two or more points where a vertical line can be drawn to intersect the
   graph, the relation is a function.

EXAMPLES

Function Relation

DIRECTIONS: State whether each relation is a function by applying the vertical line test.

CHALLENGE:Alicia concluded that every horizontal line is a function. Do you

agree? Explain your reasoning.

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Copyright

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2011 by Judith A. Muschla, Gary Robert Muschla, and Erin Muschla. All rights reserved.