Math6-8
Linear vs. Non-Linear Functions Practice Set for Grade 8
By Leann H.
A practice packet for 8th graders that teaches them to tell linear from non-linear functions using graphs, tables, and sets of points. Students build skills in analyzing constant rate of change and justifying their reasoning across multiple representations, with a clear key-concepts section to anchor the work.
Customize for your classroom
Teacher Guide & Tips
- Use this as a guided practice set after a mini-lesson on slope and constant rate of change, working through the Part 1 graph items together before students work independently.
- Discussion question: How can you tell from a table alone whether the rate of change is constant, and why does that tell you the function is linear?
- Scaffold for struggling readers: Have them compute the change in y over each equal change in x for two or three consecutive points before deciding, and sketch a quick line through the points to check.
- Extension for advanced students: Ask them to write a non-linear function that matches a given table pattern and explain how they know its rate of change is not constant.
- Estimated time: About 40 to 45 minutes for the full set, including a short whole-class debrief at the end.
Math6-8
Linear vs. Non-Linear Functions Practice Set for Grade 8
By Leann H.
A practice packet for 8th graders that teaches them to tell linear from non-linear functions using graphs, tables, and sets of points. Students build skills in analyzing constant rate of change and justifying their reasoning across multiple representations, with a clear key-concepts section to anchor the work.
Customize for your classroom
Teacher Guide & Tips
- Use this as a guided practice set after a mini-lesson on slope and constant rate of change, working through the Part 1 graph items together before students work independently.
- Discussion question: How can you tell from a table alone whether the rate of change is constant, and why does that tell you the function is linear?
- Scaffold for struggling readers: Have them compute the change in y over each equal change in x for two or three consecutive points before deciding, and sketch a quick line through the points to check.
- Extension for advanced students: Ask them to write a non-linear function that matches a given table pattern and explain how they know its rate of change is not constant.
- Estimated time: About 40 to 45 minutes for the full set, including a short whole-class debrief at the end.