INVERSE FUNCTIONS: WHAT OUR TEACHERS DIDN'T TELL US

The mathematical topic of inverse functions is an important element of algebra courses at the high school and college levels. The inverse function concept is best understood by students when it is presented in a familiar, real-world context. In this article, the authors discuss some misconceptions a...

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Veröffentlicht in:The Mathematics teacher 2011-03, Vol.104 (7), p.500-507
Hauptverfasser: Wilson, Frank C., Adamson, Scott, Cox, Trey, O'Bryan, Alan
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container_title The Mathematics teacher
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creator Wilson, Frank C.
Adamson, Scott
Cox, Trey
O'Bryan, Alan
description The mathematical topic of inverse functions is an important element of algebra courses at the high school and college levels. The inverse function concept is best understood by students when it is presented in a familiar, real-world context. In this article, the authors discuss some misconceptions about inverse functions and suggest some strategies for teaching inverses. They show that a correct understanding of inverse functions empowers learners mathematically. By eliminating the approach of switching x and y and implementing the approach of solving for the dependent variable, teachers can reduce confusion and enhance students' conceptual understanding of inverse functions. By recognizing that the inverse of y = f(x) is x = f[superscript -1](y), learners can make sense of inverse functions in various mathematical contexts, including real-world data analysis and modeling. (Contains 7 figures and 2 tables.)
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subjects Algebra
Educational Strategies
Fundamental Concepts
Instructional Improvement
Inverse functions
Mathematical Applications
Mathematical Concepts
Mathematical Formulas
Mathematical functions
Mathematical independent variables
Mathematical problems
Mathematical procedures
Mathematics education
Mathematics Instruction
Mathematics teachers
Misconception
Misconceptions
Problem Sets
Problem Solving
Range of function
Secondary school mathematics
Sine function
Teaching Methods
Variables
title INVERSE FUNCTIONS: WHAT OUR TEACHERS DIDN'T TELL US
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