CCSS.Math.Content.HSF-BF.B.4d

MathGrades 9–12Building Functions

The Standard

(+) Produce an invertible function from a non-invertible function by restricting the domain.

Common Core State Standards for Mathematics · Build new functions from existing functions

Teacher's field guide

What This Standard Means

What Students Need to Do

Students use a graph, table, or equation to find where a function repeats output values. They choose a domain interval that makes outputs unique, then define and check the inverse.

What Mastery Looks Like

For f(x) = x², a student can choose x ≥ 0 and write f⁻¹(x) = √x with correct domains and ranges. They can verify the choice using the horizontal line test and composition.

Common Misconceptions

Students often use the vertical line test instead of the horizontal line test. They may restrict the range, keep duplicate outputs, or forget that the inverse domain is the restricted function’s range.

How to Assess It

Exit ticket: For f(x) = (x − 2)² − 3, choose a domain restriction, find the inverse, and state the domain of each function.

Lesson moves

Ways to Teach It

  1. Plot y = x² with sticky notes, then remove one branch and test the remaining points with a horizontal piece of string.

  2. Write: Why do x ≥ 0 and x ≤ 0 both work for x², and how do their inverse rules differ?

  3. Sort graph cards into invertible or needs restriction, then mark a valid restricted domain on every graph in the second group.

  4. Graph a ball’s height over time, then use only ascent or descent so each height identifies one time.

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Printable HSF-BF.B.4d Worksheet

Preview of the CCSS.Math.Content.HSF-BF.B.4d printable worksheet

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Learning progression

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