Objectives: In this tutorial, we define a piecewise defined function and discuss the drawing of the graph of a piecewise defined function. In addition, the evaluation of a piecewise defined function is illustrated. After working through these materials, the student should be able

• to draw the graph of a piecewise defined function; and
• to evaluate a piecewise defined function.

Modules:

DEFINITION. A piecewise defined function is a function which is defined symbolically using two or more formulas.

• Examples.
  • 
    Discussion [Using Flash]

  • 
    Discussion [Using Flash]

• An interactive LiveMath notebook to investigate piecewise defined functions.

• Drawing the graph of a piecewise defined function with the
  • TI-86 Graphing Calculator [Using Flash]
  • TI-85 Graphing Calculator