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In order to move a parabola we need to start at the beginning.

When graphing quadratic functions we start with what is called a parent function. The parent function is the one that exists before we transform it. Let's take a closer look at a quadratic parent function.

The quadratic parent function that we will work with in this example is

 f(x) = x\(\small\mathsf{ ^2 }\).

         We need to graph the function before we can transform it.

Complete the table of values below. Click on the parent function to reveal the values of the range.
Then, click the Answer button to see the parent function graphed.

x f(x) = x\(\small\mathsf{ ^2 }\)
-4
-3
-2
-1
0
1
2
3
4

Once we know our parent function, we can work on graphing the transformations, or changes to this function. These transformations can include any of the following:

  • translations or vertical/horizontal shifts
  • reflections
  • compressions or stretches

We will revisit this function later in the lesson. First, we'll take a look at another version of the quadratic form that will make transformations easier.