with parameter a, draw the graphs for the parameters a = 0, 1, ..., 4.

[Press here to see animation again!]

1. If you are not familiar with the graphing of functions on the TI-85, then first read the Initial Setup page from Little's Basic Guide to the TI-85.
2. Type in {0,1,2,3,4} STO A
3. Press ENTER key.
4. You can find the symbol "{" by pressing 2^nd LIST and F1; the symbol "}" is then obtained by pressing F2.
5. Press the GRAPH key and then pick y(x)= by pressing the F1 key.
6. If necessary, keep pressing the F4 key until all preexisting graphs have been deleted.
7. At the prompt, y1= , type in
abs(2 A - x)
8. There are three ways to enter "abs" :
• Press 2^nd CATALOG followed by the ENTER key.
• Press 2^nd MATH, then F1, and then F5
• Or, you can simply type in "a" "b" "s", but be sure you use lower case lettering.
9. IMPORTANT: "A" in step 7 must be upper case.
10. The RANGE settings for the graph above are [-10, 10] × [0, 18]:
    

11. Select GRAPH by pressing F5.
12. Note that the graphs of the functions are plotted in the order in which the values are stored in "A".