Polynomial Graph Matching Activity

Identify the zeros (roots) of a polynomial function from its factored form

Determine a polynomial function's end behaviour from its degree and leading coefficient

Match equivalent representations of a polynomial function by comparing factored equations

Have students show their work identifying each equation's roots and end behaviour in the margin as they trace the maze, so incorrect turns can be traced back to a specific error

Use the maze as a self-checking formative check, since only one path connects START to FINISH and a wrong turn signals a misread root or end-behaviour feature

Review multiplicity (single vs. double vs. triple roots) before assigning the maze, since several equations in the grid differ only by root multiplicity

Zero identification — students read the roots of a polynomial function directly from its factored equation at each maze cell.

End-behaviour analysis — students use degree and leading coefficient to determine how each polynomial's graph behaves as x approaches infinity.

Multiplicity recognition — students distinguish single, double, and triple roots across the equations in the grid.

Self-checking problem sequencing — students trace a single valid path from START to FINISH, confirming correctness as they go.