A function foldable I like

     I was introduced to foldables about ten years ago when I taught out of the Glencoe math series. Our Pre-Algebra and Algebra books had directions for a foldable at the beginning of each chapter that were created by Dinah Zike. Back then we used loose leaf paper and the lines were guides for the folds the kids made. There weren't pre-printed foldables or flipables or graphic organizers for students. The students made these foldables and took notes for each section in the chapter. They loved them and would not forget to bring them to class everyday. 
    There are a few of those original foldable templates that I use today. This is one of my favorites that I have adapted to use when I am introducing my 8th graders to functions. Instead of loose leaf paper, I use graph paper. I love making foldables from graph paper because it is so much easier to read. At our school, we ask each of the students to bring in a package of graph paper to their math teacher at the beginning of the year. We keep in the back of the room and if students need it for any other class they can just take what they need. Then we pass out the paper as needed and there is always more than enough for the entire year. That way there are no worries about students not having paper.
    The first step to make this foldable is to take a piece of graph paper and fold it in half. I call this folding the paper the hamburger way. If we fold it the other way it is the hot dog way.

    Then open it up and cut off four squares on the top left section of the graph. 

If you are using a composition notebook you should measure the width and cut the right side of the graph paper so it fits into your notebook.

   I use 5 sheets of paper, one for linear functions, absolute value functions, quadratic functions, cubic functions and rational functions. I could probably use less paper if I combined some of the functions together.
    Then you staple the pages together to make a booklet like so. It will open like a book and then also have flaps.

                         Just lift up the flap to add the function tables and graphs.

     
     When I teach functions, I prefer to use the large function tables that have four columns. This way the students see exactly where the numbers in the function table come from. This is beneficial for my students who struggle to follow the math involved to find the y value.
     

      I have an entire page empty on the left. I haven't figured out what I am going to place there. Maybe have students do a summary or state something in their own words???? Ideas are welcome.

                  Then I do the same for quadratic, rational and cubic functions.

     The students will be using a graphing calculator later but I like to initially start out with them making the tables and graphs to help their understanding. Since I write large I like this foldable because there is so much space because of the flap at the top. I have to admit it, I'm addicted to foldables. They just make me happy.

Til next time,

Jan