Absolute Value Function notes
Keep in mind that the graph above does not show two lines intersecting
What to remember for absolute value functions:
1. The absolute value of a linear function will create a "V"
shape, naturally opening upward
2. If a negative sign is applied after calculating the absolute
value, the "V" opens downward
3. When a constant is added on the outside of the bars
a. If the constant is positive, the vertex shifts that many
spaces up from the origin
b. If the constant is negative, the vertex shifts that many
spaces down from the origin
4. When a constant is added on inside the bars
a. If the constant is positive, the vertex shifts left that
many spaces from the y-intercept
b. If the constant is negative, the vertex shifts right that
many spaces from the y-intercept
5. Once you identify the location of the vertex, graph the
function by creating a table of values that center around the
vertex (choose 2-3 v-values above and below). This creates
the best image.