SAT Subject Test in Math II

The SAT Subject Test in Math II assesses students' understanding of advanced mathematical concepts and their ability to apply these concepts to solve problems.

Basic Concepts

Functions and Graphs

Understanding Functions

A function represents a relationship between inputs (domain) and outputs (range), often written as \( f(x) \). Graphs allow us to visualize these relationships.

Key Concepts

  • Recognize linear, quadratic, exponential, and trigonometric functions.
  • Interpret the meaning of a graph's shape, intercepts, and slope.
  • Understand transformations: shifts, reflections, stretches, and shrinks.

Why It Matters

Functions model everything from population growth to the path of a basketball. Understanding how to read and sketch graphs helps with problem-solving and interpreting real-world data.

Tips

  • Identify the type of function by its equation.
  • Use tables to find key points before graphing.
  • Notice how changes in the equation affect the graph.

Real-World Applications

Functions are used in economics to model profit, in physics to describe motion, and in biology to study populations.

Examples

  • The graph of \( y = x^2 \) is a parabola opening upward.

  • Shifting \( f(x) \) up by 3 units gives \( f(x) + 3 \).

In a Nutshell

Visualize and analyze relationships using equations and graphs.