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Library AP Precalculus Unit 1: Polynomial and Rational Functions
⁂   AP Precalculus · Unit 1

1. Polynomial and Rational Functions

30–40% of the AP exam. Key topics: Rates of Change of Functions (average vs. instantaneous; secant/tangent slopes), Rates of Change in Linear and Quadratic Functions, Polynomial Functions and Rates of Change, Polynomial Functions and Complex Zeros (Fundamental Theorem; real vs. complex roots), Polynomial Functions and End Behavior (leading term; even/odd degree), Polynomial Functions and Local/Global Behavior (local extrema; intervals of increase/decrease), Rational Functions and Zeros (factoring; removable discontinuities), Rational Functions and Vertical Asymptotes, Rational Functions and Horizontal Asymptotes (degree comparison), Rational Functions and Oblique Asymptotes (polynomial long division), Equivalent Representations of Polynomial and Rational Expressions, Transformations of Functions (translations, reflections, dilations), Function Model Selection and Assumption Articulation, Function Model Construction and Application.

30–40% exam weight standard track

Unit 1: Polynomial and Rational Functions

Study guide content for this unit is being prepared. Check back soon for complete lesson notes, formula sheets, and worked examples.

Topics in this unit

  • Rates of Change of Functions (average vs. instantaneous; secant/tangent slopes)
  • Rates of Change in Linear and Quadratic Functions
  • Polynomial Functions and Rates of Change
  • Polynomial Functions and Complex Zeros (Fundamental Theorem; real vs. complex roots)
  • Polynomial Functions and End Behavior (leading term; even/odd degree)
  • Polynomial Functions and Local/Global Behavior (local extrema; intervals of increase/decrease)
  • Rational Functions and Zeros (factoring; removable discontinuities)
  • Rational Functions and Vertical Asymptotes
  • Rational Functions and Horizontal Asymptotes (degree comparison)
  • Rational Functions and Oblique Asymptotes (polynomial long division)
  • Equivalent Representations of Polynomial and Rational Expressions
  • Transformations of Functions (translations, reflections, dilations)
  • Function Model Selection and Assumption Articulation
  • Function Model Construction and Application