The first point to graph in a direct variation equation is (0,0). How can you find another point using the slope?
Practice makes perfect
A direct variation equation follows a certain format.
y= mx
In this form, m represents the slope or constant of variation. If we highlight the coefficient of x in our given equation, we can see that the constant of variation is - 12.
y= - 1/2x
By rewriting the fraction - 12 as - 1 2, we can form a ratio of rise over run.
m=rise/run=-1/2
This slope means that the graph decreases by 1 vertically as it increases by 2 horizontally. The graphs of direct variation equations always pass through the origin, (0,0). Let's plot a point at the origin and use this slope to find another point on the line.
Finally, we complete the graph by sketching a line that passes through both points.
