← Senior Mathematics Studio

LEARN · EXPLAIN · REVISE

For which m is this positive for every real x?

Read the idea, work independently, then explain what changed.

Return to the lesson / paper ↗

高一必修 第一册(A版).pdf · 2.3 · PDF 57 / printed page 50

Revisit first: Basic inequality: AM–GM

TOPIC 01

Quadratic functions, equations and inequalities

Build understanding of quadratic functions, equations and inequalities through definitions, contrasting cases and justified applications.

What you will be able to explain

  • Apply quadratic functions, equations and inequalities with explicit conditions.
  • Connect representations and justify the steps, including boundary cases.
  • Explain a solution and apply the idea to a changed situation.

Try it. Leave your reasoning visible.

Use one hint at a time. A correction explains what changed, not just the final answer.

01 / Standard#Your turn

For which m is this positive for every real x?

x2−6x+mx^2-6x+m
  • Use the domain, units and sampling assumptions stated in the question.
Skills and prerequisite lessons

Working and explanation

BUILD THE REASONING

Hint 1
Find the roots or vertex, then check signs and endpoints.
Hint 2
Its minimum occurs when the square vanishes.
Worked solution
  1. Find the roots or vertex, then check signs and endpoints.

  2. Calculate or simplify this relation.

    x2−6x+m=(x−3)2+m−9x^2-6x+m=(x-3)^2+m-9
  3. Strict positivity requires a strictly positive minimum.

m>9.

Checks and common pitfalls: Strict positivity requires a strictly positive minimum.

Reasoning checklist · self / teacher assessment
  • State the relevant definition, condition or model.
  • Show a valid calculation, proof or counterexample.
  • Interpret the conclusion with its restrictions.

Think first. Reveal a hint when the class is ready.

Focus on one question

Teacher preparation and assessment

Question sequence

  • What must be true before using the main rule for quadratic functions, equations and inequalities?
  • Which representation makes this task easier, and why?
  • Change one assumption. Does the conclusion survive?

Board plan

  • Apply quadratic functions, equations and inequalities with explicit conditions.
  • Signs and roots: Roots divide the number line into intervals of fixed sign.
  • Vertex and discriminant: Complete the square for extrema and use the discriminant to count roots.
    Δ=b2−4ac\Delta=b^2-4ac
  • Close with: conditions → representation → reasoning → check.

Anticipated thinking

  • Expected reasoning: Roots divide the number line into intervals of fixed sign.
  • Expected reasoning: Complete the square for extrema and use the discriminant to count roots.
  • Expected correction: Treat a=0 separately.

Assessment checklist

  • 1: identify the givens and required quantity.
  • 1: choose a valid definition, representation or method.
  • 1: present connected, correct reasoning.
  • 1: check conditions and explain the result.

No sign-in. Work stays in this browser. Export before clearing browser data. Written reasoning is assessed with a checklist.

Curriculum and source notes ↗