Linear Giraffes
Here is a problem I have used in my algebra class. It uses knowledge of lines, functions, and extrapolation versus interpolation. (I find that in order for the students to be able to read the picture of the sign, I have to print it in color. Next time I go to the zoo I am going to try to get a better picture.)
The sign shown below from the Detroit Zoo gives various information about giraffes. Use the information from the sign to answer the following questions.
A) Write a function g(t) describing the height of a giraffe during its first year of life where t is the age of the giraffe in months.
B) How tall is a giraffe when it is one year old? Give your answer in a complete sentence with units.
C) Compute g(-1). Is this interpolation, reasonable extrapolation, or reckless extrapolation?
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