Graph the quadratic functions y = -2x2 and y = -2x2 + 4 on a separate piece of paper. Using those graphs, compare and contrast the shape and position of the graphs.

Question

And write like a fourth grader

Answer 1

Both of those quadractic functions are like a sad face. They both start at the top and go down.

But one of them, y = -2x^2, goes down more steeply and doesn't touch the x-axis. It's like a frown with no mouth.

The other one, y = -2x^2 + 4, goes down more gently and touches the x-axis at a point where y = 4. It's like a frown with a little smile.