Graphing slope

Graphing slope is the goal of this lesson. We will show you here how easy the process is using the slope and any point given.

A couple of examples showing how graphing slope works

Example #1:

Given a point of (1, 2) and a slope of 5/2, graph the slope of the line.

First, we need to locate the point (1, 2) and put it on the coordinate system.

We show the point (1, 2) with a blue dot in the figure below.

Then, from that point, you will need to show a slope of 5/2

Using the slope of 5/2, we see that 5 is the rise and 2 is the run or horizontal distance.

Now, starting at the point (1,2) or the blue dot, draw a rise of 5. In other words, count 5 units straight up as you draw a line. You will end up at the point (1,7) after you are done.

Now, starting at point (1,7), draw a run of 2 or count 2 units horizontally as you draw a line. You will end up at the point (3,7) once you are done doing this.

Recall that when drawing the run, you will always move from left to right.

Finally, draw a line between your starting point and your final point. This is the slope of the line, which we show below with a red line.

Example #2:

Given a point of (2, 7) and a slope of -3/2, graph the slope of the line.

First, locate the point (2, 7) and put it on the coordinate system.

Using the slope of -3/2, we see that 3 is the fall and 2 is the run or horizontal distance.

Notice that this time we don’t rise, but fall because the slope is negative.

Now, starting at the point (2,7) draw a fall of 3. In other words, count 3 units straight down as you draw a line. Once you are done, you will end point at the point (2, 4).