2024 SAJC JC1 H2 Mathematics

Lecture Notes
Chapter 6: Transformations of Graph

Objectives:

(a) effect of transformations on the graph of y = f ( x ) as represented by y = a f ( x ) ,

y = f ( x ) + a , y = f ( x + a ) and y = f ( ax ) , and combinations of these transformations.

relate the graphs of y = f ( x ) , y = f ( x ) , y =

1
(b) and y = f ' ( x ) to the graph of
f ( x)
y = f ( x) .

Contents:

1 Transformations of Graph:
A) Translation,
B) Scaling,
C) Reflection,
D) Combination of transformations using Composite Function.

2 Graph of y =| f ( x) | .
3 Graph of y = f (| x |) ,
1
4 Graph of y =
f ( x)
5 Graph of y = f' ( x ) , the derivative of y = f ( x) .
6 Self-reading examples

Pre-Requisite Knowledge :
Basic knowledge of Functions and Graphing Techniques.
Recall from O level Additional Math:
x x
- graphs of y = asin(bx) + c, y = asin   + c, y = acos(bx) + c, y = acos   + c and
b b
y = a tan(bx), where a is real, b is a positive integer and c is an integer.
- Amplitude, periodicity and symmetries related to the sine and cosine functions.
- Coordinate geometry of circles in the form: ( x − a) 2 + ( y − b) 2 = r 2 .
- Increasing and decreasing functions.
- Stationary points (maximum and minimum turning points and stationary points of
inflexion).

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 2023 SAJC JC1 H2 Mathematics
Lecture Notes
1 Transformations of Graph: Translation, Scaling, Combination of transformations

(A) Translation Learning points 

A translation is a movement of the graph vertically (parallel to y-axis)
or horizontally (parallel to x-axis) without changing its shape or size.

Example 1: Vertical Translation parallel to the y-axis

Consider the following graphs, where d is a positive number:

(i) y = f(x) = x 2
(ii) y = f(x) + d = x 2 + d
(iii) y = f(x) – d = x 2 − d .
y
y = f(x) + d

y = f(x)

y = f(x) – d
d
x
0

–d

Summary : Translation on y-variable

Translation in the y – direction means moving the graph up or down parallel to the y-axis.

Translation: Effect on equation from Effect on points of Description

y = f ( x) + d y = f ( x) graph y = f(x)
For any positive or Replace y with y − d y-coordinates when d is positive
negative d y = f ( x) → y − d = f ( x) changed by d units Translation of d units
(p, q) → (p, q + d) in the positive y-
 y = f ( x) + d
direction
when d is negative
Translation of |d|
units in the negative
y-direction
Example
d =20 Replace y with y − 2 (p, q) → (p, q + 2) Translation of 2 units
y = f ( x) → y − 2 = f ( x) in the positive y-
direction.
 y = f ( x) + 2
d = −2  0 Replace y with (p, q) → (p, q – 2) Translation of 2 units
y − ( −2) = y + 2 in the negative y-
direction.
y = f ( x ) → y − ( −2 ) = f ( x )
y + 2 = f ( x)
 y = f ( x) − 2

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 2023 SAJC JC1 H2 Mathematics
Lecture Notes
Example 2: Horizontal Translation parallel to the x-axis
Learning points 
Consider the following graphs where a is a positive number:
(i) y = f(x) = x 2
y = f(x – a) = ( x − a )
2
(ii)
y = f(x + a) = ( x + a ) .
2
(iii)
y
y = f(x)

y = f(x + a) y = f(x – a)

x
–a 0 a

Summary : Translation on x-variable

Translation in the x – direction means moving the graph to the left or to

the right parallel to the x-axis.

Translation: Effect on equation from Effect on points of Description

y = f ( x − a) y = f ( x) graph y = f(x)
For any positive or Replace x with x − a x-coordinates changed when a is positive
negative a by a units Translation of a units
y = f ( x) → y = f ( x − a) in the positive x-
(p, q) → (p + a, q) direction
when a is negative
Translation of |a|
units in the negative
x-direction
Example
a =50 Replace x with x − 5 (p, q) → (p + 5, q) Translation of 5 units
y = f ( x) → y = f ( x − 5) in the positive x-
direction.
a = −5  0 Replace x with Translation of 5 units
x − ( −5) = x + 5 (p, q) → (p – 5, q) in the negative x-
y = f ( x) → y = f ( x + 5) direction.

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 2023 SAJC JC1 H2 Mathematics
Lecture Notes
Example 3
Learning points 
. The graph of y = f ( x ) is given as follows.
2x
Let f ( x ) =
x +1
2

(1, 1) 2x
y=
x +1
2
y=0
(0, 0)
x

On separate diagrams, sketch the graphs of

(i) y = f ( x) +1 (ii) y = f ( x) − 2
(iii) y = f ( x − 1) (iv) y = f ( x + 3)
showing clearly the equations of any asymptote(s), the coordinates of any
turning point(s) and any points where the curve crosses the x - and y -axes
where possible.

Solution:
(i) y = f ( x) +1
y
y = f(x) y = f ( x) + 1
y = f(x) + 1
Asymptote y = 0 Asymptote y = 1
(0, 1) y=1 (0,0) (0,1)
x (‒1,‒1) (‒1,0)
(1,1) (1,2)

(ii) y = f ( x) − 2
y − (−2) = f ( x )
y y = f(x) y = f ( x) − 2
x Asymptote y = 0 Asymptote y = ‒2
(0,0) (0,‒2)
y = f(x) – 2
(‒1,‒1) (‒1, ‒3)
(1,1) (1, ‒1)
(0, –2) y = –2

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 2023 SAJC JC1 H2 Mathematics
Lecture Notes
(iii) y = f ( x − 1)
y
y = f(x – 1)
y = f(x) y = f ( x − 1)
Asymptote y = 0 No change
y=0 (0,0) (1,0)
x (‒1,‒1) (0,‒1)
(1,1) (2,1)

(iv) y = f ( x + 3)
y = f ( x − (−3) ) y = f(x) y = f ( x + 3)
y Asymptote y = 0 No change
y = f(x + 3) (0,0) (‒3,0)
y=0 (‒1,‒1) (‒4,‒1)
x (1,1) (‒2,1)

Learning points 
Big Idea:

Transformation
refers to changes
made to a
mathematical object
using a clearly
defined rule. When
an object (e.g. graph,
equation, or random
variable) is
transformed, its
properties may or
may not change (i.e.
invariant)

In Example 3iii) and

3iv) which involves a
translation in the
direction of the x-
axis, you would have
notice that the
asymptote y = 0
remains
unchanged/is
invariant.

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Lecture Notes
(B) Scaling
A scaling is a stretch of a graph parallel to the x-axis or y-axis.

Example 4a: Scale parallel to the y-axis Learning points 

Consider the graph y = f(x) = sin x for −2π  x  2π and the following graphs
1 1
(i) y = 2f(x) = 2sin x (ii) y = f ( x) = sin x
2 2
y
2 y = 2f(x)

y = f(x)
1
1
y= f ( x)
2 x
−2π −π 0 π 2π

‒1

Summary: Scaling on y-variable

Scaling parallel to the y-axis basically means expanding or shrinking the graph vertically.

i.e. the new y-coordinates are multiples of the original y-coordinates represented by y = cf(x),
c > 0.
Scaling: y = cf ( x) Effect on equation from Effect on points of Description
y = f ( x) graph y = f(x)
c is positive y y-coordinates Scaling parallel to the
Replace y with
c multiplied by scale y-axis by scale factor
y factor c. c.
y = f ( x) → = f ( x)
c
(p, q) → (p, cq)
 y = cf ( x)
Example
c=2 y (p, q) → (p, 2q) Scaling parallel to the
Replace y with
2 y-axis by scale factor
y 2.
y = f ( x) → = f ( x)
2
 y = 2f ( x)
1 y Scaling parallel to the
c= Replace y with = 2y
2 1 1 y-axis by scale factor
2 (p, q) → (p, q) 1
2 .
y
y = f ( x) → = f ( x) 2
1
2
1
 y = f ( x)
2
Note: Scale factor has no unit.

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 2023 SAJC JC1 H2 Mathematics
Lecture Notes
Example 4b Learning points 
The graph of y = f ( x ) is given as follows.
y

y=0
(0, 0)
x

On separate diagrams, sketch the graphs of

1
(i) y = 3f ( x ) y = f ( x)
(ii)
4
showing clearly the equations of any asymptote(s), the coordinates of any
turning point(s) and any points where the curve crosses the x - and y -axes.
Solution:

(i) y = 3f ( x )
y
(1,3)

y = f(x) y = 3f ( x)
y
= f ( x) ;
3
scale factor = 3
(0,0) y=0 x Asymptote y = 0 No change
(0,0) No change
(‒1,‒1) (‒1,‒3)
(1,1) (1,3)
(‒1,‒3)

1
(ii) y = f ( x)
4 y

y = f(x) 1
y = f ( x)
4
y
= f ( x)
1
4

y=0 x 1
Scale factor =
4
Asymptote y = 0 No change
(0,0) No change
(‒1,‒1)  1
 −1, − 
 4
(1,1)  1
1, 
 4

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 2023 SAJC JC1 H2 Mathematics
Lecture Notes
Example 5a: Scaling parallel to x-axis
Consider the graph y = f(x) = sin x for −2π  x  2π and the following graphs Learning points 
(i) y = f (2x) = sin ( 2x )
1  1 
(ii) y = f  x  = sin  x 
2  2 
y

x
‒2π ‒π π 2π
0

‒1
1  y = f (2 x) y = f(x)
y = f  x
2 

Summary: Scaling on x-variable

Scaling parallel to the x-axis basically means expanding or shrinking the graph horizontally.
x
i.e. the new x-coordinates are multiples of the original x-coordinates represented by y = f   ,
b
b > 0.

Scaling: y = f (bx) Effect on equation from Effect on points of Description

y = f ( x) graph y = f(x)
b is positive x x-coordinates Scaling parallel to the
Replace x with
b multiplied by scale x-axis by scale factor
 x factor b . b.
y = f ( x) → y = f  
b (p, q) → ( bp, q )
Example
b=2 x (p, q) → (2p, q) Scaling parallel to the
Replace x with
2 x-axis by scale factor
 x 2.
y = f ( x) → y = f  
2

1 x Scaling parallel to the

c= Replace x with = 2x
2 1 1 x-axis by scale factor
2 (p, q) → ( p, q) 1
2
 x  .
y = f ( x) → y = f   2
1 
 2
 y = f ( 2x)

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 2023 SAJC JC1 H2 Mathematics
Lecture Notes
Example 5b
The graph of y = f ( x ) is given as follows. Learning points 
y

y=0
(0, 0)
x

On separate diagrams, sketch the graphs of

1 
(i) y = f ( 3x ) y = f  x
(ii)
2 
showing clearly the equations of any asymptote(s), the coordinates of any
turning point(s) and any points where the curve crosses the x - and y -
axes.
Solution:

(i) y = f ( 3x )
y y = f(x)  x 
y = f ( 3x ) = f  
1 
 3
1
Scale factor =
(0,0) y=0 x 3
Asymptote y = 0 No change
(0,0) No change
(‒1,‒1)  1 
 − , −1 
 3 
(1,1) 1 
 ,1 
3 

1 
(ii) y = f  x
2 
y y = f(x) 1 
y = f  x
2 
x
=f 
y=0
x 2
Scale factor = 2
Asymptote y = 0 No change
(0,0) No change
(‒1,‒1) (‒2,‒1)
(1,1) (2,1)

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Lecture Notes
(C) Reflection
(i) Reflection about the x-axis y = −f ( x)

Scaling: y = cf ( x) Effect on equation Effect on points of Description

where c = −1 from y = f ( x) graph y = f(x)

y = – f(x) y y-coordinates Reflection about the x-

Replace y with
−1 multiplied by –1. axis
y
y = f ( x) → = f ( x) (p, q) → (p, – q)
−1
y = −f ( x )

Note: If we have y = cf ( x) where c is any negative real number, then we are scaling the graph
parallel to y-axis by scale factor c and reflecting the graph about the x-axis (see Example 6a(ii)).

Example 6a
The graph of y = f ( x ) is given as follows. Learning points 
y

y=0
(0, 0)
x

On separate diagrams, sketch the graphs of

(i) y = −f ( x ) (ii) y = −2f ( x )
showing clearly the equations of any asymptote(s), the coordinates of any
turning point(s) and any points where the curve crosses the x - and y -axes.

Solution:
(i) y = −f ( x )

y y = f(x) y = −f ( x )
Scale factor = −1
Asymptote y = 0 No change
(0,0) No change
y=0
(‒1,‒1) (‒1,1)
x
(1,1) (1,‒1)

Note:
The graph of y = f(x) is reflected about the
x-axis.

(ii) y = −2f ( x )

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Lecture Notes

y y = f(x) y = −2f ( x )
y
= f ( x)
y=0 −2
x Scale factor = −2
Asymptote y = 0 No change
(0,0) No change
(‒1,‒1) (‒1,2)
(1,1) (1,‒2)

Note:
The graph of y = 2f(x) is reflected about the
x-axis.

(ii) Reflection about the y-axis y = f ( − x)

x Effect on equation Effect on points of Description

Scaling: y = f ( )
b from y = f ( x) graph y = f(x)
where b = –1
 x  Replace x with − x x-coordinates Reflection about the
y=f  y = f ( x) → y = f ( − x)
 −1  multiplied by –1. y-axis
= f (− x)
(p, q) → (– p, q)

x
Note: If we have y = f ( ) where b is any negative real number, then we are scaling the graph
b
parallel to x-axis by scale factor b and reflecting the graph about the y-axis (see Example 6b(ii)).

Example 6b Learning points 

The graph of y = f ( x ) is given as follows.

y=0
(0, 0)
x

On separate diagrams, sketch the graphs of

(i) y = f ( −x) (ii) y = f ( −2 x )
showing clearly the equations of any asymptote(s), the coordinates of any
turning point(s) and any points where the curve crosses the x - and y -
axes.
Chapter 7: Transformations of Graph Page 11 of 31
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Lecture Notes
Solution:
 x 
(i) y = f (−x) = f  
 −1 
y y = f(x) y = f ( −x)
Scale factor = −1
y=0 Asymptote y = 0 No change
x (0,0) No change
(‒1,‒1) ( 1 ,‒1)
(1,1) (‒ 1 ,1)

Note:
The graph of y = f(x) is reflected about
the y-axis.

 x 
(ii) y = f ( −2 x ) = f  
 − 12  y = f(x) y = f ( −2 x )
1
y Scale factor = −
2
Asymptote y = 0 No change
(0,0) No change
y=0
(‒1,‒1) 1 
x  , −1 
2 
(1,1)  1 
 − ,1 
 2 

Note:
The graph of y = f(x) is first scaled
1
parallel to the x-axis by scale factor
2
and then is reflected about y-axis.

Or

The graph of y = f(x) is first reflected

about y-axis and then scaled parallel to
1
the x-axis by scale factor .
2

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Lecture Notes
(D) Combination of transformations using Composite Function
Learning points 
In Chapter 6, you learnt that composite functions are the combination of two or
more functions applied one after the other.

Example 7
The functions f and g are defined by
f : x sin x, −   x  

g:x 2x + , −1  x  1
3
Describe a sequence of transformations that maps the graph of f onto the graph
of gf.

Solution:

gf ( x) = g(sin x)

= 2 ( sin x ) +
3

gf means to map graph of f to the graph of g with its restricted domain.


y = sin x → y = 2sin x → y = 2 ( sin x ) +
3
The transformation requires scaling the graph parallel to the y-axis by a scale

factor 2 followed by the translation of units in the direction of the positive y-
3
axis.


Question: Can we translate the graph by units in the direction of the positive y-
3
axis followed by scale factor 2 parallel to the y-axis to obtain gf(x)?

Answer: No. If we were to perform transformation based on the above sequence,

   
y = sin x → y = sin x + → y = 2  sin x +   2sin x +
3  3 3

When two or more transformations are combined to form a new transformation, the
result is called a composition of transformations. In a composition, the first
transformation produces an image upon which the second transformation is then
performed. Therefore the order of the transformations matters .

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Lecture Notes
When the composition of transformations involve both y-variable and x-variable, it
is recommended to transform the x-variable first.

x 
Consider y = c f  − a  + d
b 

x 
The recommended steps taken to transform the graph y = f(x) to y = c f  − a  + d where a, b, c
b 
and d are constants are:

Steps in sequence y = f ( x)
1. Translation of a units in the positive x-direction; y = f ( x − a)
2. Scaling parallel to the x-axis by scale factor of b. x 
y = f  −a
b 
3. Scaling parallel to the y-axis by scale factor of c x 
y = cf  −a
b 
4. Translation of d units in the positive y-direction. x 
y = cf  −a+ d
b 

Note: The order in which the transformations are carried out matters.

Example 8
y
A

D x
C 3

B x=3

The curve shown in the diagram has equation y = f(x).

The graph has a maximum point A(–1,3), a minimum point B(1,–2) and cuts the x, y axes at points
C(0,0) and D(2,0) respectively. It has asymptote x = 3.

(a) Describe the steps taken to transform the graph y = f(x) to

(i) y = 2f ( x ) + 4 , (ii) y = f (1 + 2 x ) .

(b) Sketch, on separate diagrams, the graphs of

(i) y = 2f ( x ) + 4 , (ii) y = f (1 + 2 x ) .
Show in each case, the asymptotes and the coordinates of the points corresponding to A, B, C, D.

Solution:

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Lecture Notes
(i) y = 2f ( x ) + 4
y = f ( x) The graph of y = f(x) undergoes

 Replace y by 2y 1: Scaling parallel to the y-axis by scale factor 2

y
= f ( x)  y = 2f ( x)
2

 Replace y by y − 4 2: Translation of 4 units in the positive y-direction

y − 4 = 2f ( x)  y = 2f ( x) + 4
A’(–1, 10) y
y = f ( x) y = 2f ( x ) y = 2f ( x ) + 4
(intermediate
steps)
Asymptote No change No change
C’(0, 4) D’ (2, 4) x=3
A ( −1,3) ( −1,3  2) = ( −1,6 ) A’ ( −1,6 + 4) = ( −1,10)
B (1, −2) (1, −2  2) = (1, −4) B’ (1, −4 + 4) = (1,0)

B’(1, 0) x C ( 0, 0 ) ( 0,0  2) = ( 0,0) C’ ( 0,0 + 4 ) = ( 0, 4 )

D ( 2, 0 ) ( 2,0  2) = ( 2,0) D’ ( 2,0 + 4 ) = ( 2, 4 )

x=3
(ii) y = f (1 + 2 x ) = f ( 2 x + 1)
y = f ( x) The graph of y = f(x) undergoes

 Replace x by x − ( −1) = x + 1 1: Translation of 1 unit in the negative x-direction

y = f ( x + 1)

 Replace x by x
1
= 2x 2: Scaling parallel to the x-axis by scale factor
1
2
2

x
y = f ( 1 + 1) = f (2 x + 1)
2

y
y = f ( x) y = f ( x + 1) y = f ( 2 x + 1)
A’(–1, 3) Asymptote Asymptote Asymptote x = 1
x=3 x=2
A ( −1,3) ( −2,3)  1 
A’  −2    ,3  = ( −1,3)
 2 
D’  1 , 0 
  B (1, −2) ( 0, −2)  1 
2  x B’  0    , −2  = ( 0, −2 )
C’  2 
C ( 0, 0 ) ( −1,0) C’
 1   1 
 −1  2  , 0  =  − 2 , 0 
x=1 x=3      
B’
D ( 2, 0 ) (1,0)  1  1 
D’ 1   , 0  =  , 0 
 2  2 
Chapter 7: Transformations of Graph Page 15 of 31
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Lecture Notes
Example 9 (Description of transformation)
Describe the steps taken to transform the graph of y = f(x) to the graph of y = 3f(2x – 1) + 4.

y = f ( x) The graph of y = f(x) undergoes

 Replace x by x −1 1 : Translation of 1 unit in the positive x-direction

y = f ( x − 1)

 Replace x by x
1 2: Scaling parallel to the x-axis by scale factor ½
2

x
y = f ( 1 − 1) = f (2 x − 1)
2

 Replace y by 3y 3: Scaling parallel to the y-axis by scale factor 3

y
= f (2 x − 1)  y = 3f (2 x − 1)
3

 Replace y by y − 4 4: Translation of 4 units in the positive y-direction

y − 4 = 3f (2 x − 1)  y = 3f (2 x − 1) + 4

Example 10 (What if the equation is not of the form y = f(x))

Find the equation of the graph obtained
(i) when the graph of x 2 + y 2 = 4 is translated 2 units in the negative x-direction,
(ii) when the graph of x 2 + y 2 = 4 is scaled parallel to the y-axis with a scale factor of 2.
State precisely a sequence of geometrical transformations which would transform the graph of
y2
x 2 + y 2 = 4 onto the graph of ( x − 1) 2 + = 1.
9
Solution:
Let x 2 + y 2 = 4 .

Transformation Effect on the Equation of new

equation graph
(i) x 2 + y 2 = 4 is translated 2 units in the Replace x by x − ( −2) ( x + 2)2 + y 2 = 4
negative x-direction

(ii) x 2 + y 2 = 4 is scaled parallel to the y- y  y

2
Replace y by x2 +   = 4
axis with a scale factor of 2. 2 2
y2
x2 + =4
4

y2
From x 2 + y 2 = 4 to ( x − 1) 2 + = 1:
9

Chapter 7: Transformations of Graph Page 16 of 31

 2023 SAJC JC1 H2 Mathematics
Lecture Notes
2 2
x2 y 2 x  y
+ =1   +   =1 The graph of y = f(x) undergoes
4 4 2  2

 Replace x by 1
x
= 2x 1: Scaling parallel to the x-axis by scale factor
1
2
2
2 2
 2x   y 
  +  =1
 2  2
2
 y
x +  =1
2

2

 Replace x by x − 1 2: Translation of 1 unit in the positive x-direction

2
 y
( x − 1) 2 +   = 1
2

 Replace y by 3y =
2
3
y 3: Scaling parallel to the y-axis by scale factor 3
2
2
2
2 y
( x − 1) +  3  = 1
2

 2 
2
 y y2
( x − 1) +   = 1  ( x − 1) 2 +
2
=1
3 9

Chapter 7: Transformations of Graph Page 17 of 31

 2023 SAJC JC1 H2 Mathematics
Lecture Notes
Example 11 (when we have to perform the transformation backwards)
A graph with equation y = g( x ) undergoes in succession, the following transformations:
A: A reflection about the x−axis
B: A translation of 1 unit in the direction of the positive y−axis
C: Scaling parallel to the x−axis by a scale factor 3
x − 12
The equation of the resulting curve is given by y = . Find the equation y = g( x ) .
2x − 9
Solution:
Method 1: Working backwards
1
Let C’ : Scaling parallel to the x-axis by scale factor
3
B’ :Translation of 1 unit in the direction of the negative y−axis
A’ : Reflection about x-axis

x − 12
y=
2x − 9

 C ' : replace x by x = 3x
1
3

3x − 12 3x − 12 x−4
y=  y=  y=
2(3x) − 9 6x − 9 2x − 3

 B' : replace y by y − (−1) = y + 1

x−4 x−4
y +1 =  y= −1
2x − 3 2x − 3

 A' : replace y by
y
−1
= −y

x−4 x−4 2x − 3 − x + 4 x +1
−y = −1  y = 1−  y=  y=
2x − 3 2x − 3 2x − 3 2x − 3

Method 2

Let ( p, q ) be a point on the curve y = g(x). Then q = g ( p )

A B C
( p, q) ⎯⎯ →( p, −q) ⎯⎯ →( p, −q + 1) ⎯⎯ →(3 p, −q + 1)
x − 12
(3 p, −q + 1) lies on the curve y = 2 x − 9
x − 12
 The point with x = 3 p and y = − q + 1 satisfy the equation y =
2x − 9
3 p − 12 p−4
−q + 1 = =
2(3 p ) − 9 2 p − 3
p − 4 2 p − 3 − ( p − 4) p +1
q = 1− = = = g( p)
2p −3 2p −3 2p −3
x +1
Hence the equation of the original curve is y = = g( x)
2x − 3

Chapter 7: Transformations of Graph Page 18 of 31

 2023 SAJC JC1 H2 Mathematics
Lecture Notes

2 Graph of y = |f(x)| Learning points 

Example 12 In Example 12,
The curve shown in the diagram has equation y = f(x). The graph has a points C & D would
maximum point A(–1,3), a minimum point B(1,–2) and cuts the x, y axes at be considered to be
points C(0,0) and D(2,0) respectively and has asymptotes x = 3 and y = 0 . invariant points since
it remains unchanged
Sketch the graph of y = f ( x) .
after the
transformation.
y Likewise the
A
asymptotes x = 3 and
y = 0 are said to be
invariant.
D
y=0 C x

B
x=3
Solution: y
A’ y = f(x) y = f ( x)
B’
Asymptote x = 3 No change
Asymptote y = 0 No change
A ( −1,3) A’ ( −1,3)
y=0 C’ D’ x B (1, −2) B’ (1, 2 )
C ( 0, 0 ) C’ ( 0, 0 )
x=3
D ( 2, 0 ) D’ ( 2, 0 )

We observe that the two graphs coincide for x  0 and x  2 ; the part of the graph of y = f ( x)
for 0  x  2 is reflected in the x-axis to obtain the graph of y = f ( x) .

Summary
 f ( x), f ( x)  0
In general, y = f ( x) = 
−f ( x), f ( x)  0

Thus, the graph of y = |f(x)| can be obtained from the graph of y = f(x) by reflecting the parts of
the graph for which f ( x)  0 in the x-axis while keeping the parts for which f ( x)  0 .

Chapter 7: Transformations of Graph Page 19 of 31

 2023 SAJC JC1 H2 Mathematics
Lecture Notes

3 Graph of y = f(|x|) Learning points 

Example 13
The curve shown in the diagram has equation y = f(x). The graph has a maximum
point A(–1,3), a minimum point B(1,–2) and cuts the x, y axes at points C(0,0) and
D(2,0) respectively and has asymptote x = 3. Sketch the graph of y = f (| x |) .

y
A

D
C 3 x

B x=3
Solution:

D’ C D
‒3 3 x

x = -3 A’ B x=3

We observe that the graph y = f(|x|) coincides exactly with the graph y = f(x) for x  0 ;
While for x  0 , the graph y = f(|x|) is the reflection of the graph y = f(x), x  0 in the y-axis.

Summary

 f ( x), x  0
In general, y = f (| x |) = 
f (− x), x  0

Thus, the graph of y = f (| x |) can be obtained from the graph of y = f(x) by the following steps :
1. Keep the parts for which x  0 .
2. Delete the parts for which x < 0 and replace it by a reflection of the parts in (1) about the y-
axis.

Note: The graph of y = f(|x|) is symmetrical about the y-axis.

Chapter 7: Transformations of Graph Page 20 of 31

 2023 SAJC JC1 H2 Mathematics
Lecture Notes

1
4 Graph of y =
f ( x)
1
Let’s consider some simple graphs of y = f ( x) and its corresponding graph of y = .
f ( x)

(a) y = f(x) y = f(x) 1

y=
f ( x)
 1 ( −1, 2)
 −1, 
 2
 1 (1, 2)
1, 
(0, 0)  2
(0,0) 1
y= → +
f ( x)
Graph of y =
1 Asymptote x = 0
f ( x) y = f ( x ) → + y=
1
→ 0+
f ( x)
Asymptote y = 0

y=0

x=0

(b) y = f(x) y = f(x) 1

y=
f ( x)
( a, 0 ) Asymptote x = a
( b, 0 ) Asymptote x = b
( 0,c )  1
 0, 
 c

 1
Max point: ( 0,c ) Min point:  0, 
 c
y = f ( x ) → + y=
1
→ 0+
1
Graph of y = f ( x)
f ( x)
Asymptote y = 0
y = f ( x ) → − y=
1
→ 0−
f ( x)
Asymptote y = 0

Chapter 7: Transformations of Graph Page 21 of 31

 2023 SAJC JC1 H2 Mathematics
Lecture Notes

y=0

(c) y = f ( x) y = f(x) 1
y=
f ( x)
Min point: (1, 2 )  1
Max point: 1, 
 2
Max point: Min point:
( −1, −2)  1
 −1, − 
 2
Asymptote x = 0 (0, 0 )

x=0 Oblique
Asymptote y = 0
Asymptote y = x
1
y=
f ( x)

Chapter 7: Transformations of Graph Page 22 of 31

 2023 SAJC JC1 H2 Mathematics
Lecture Notes
1
In general, to sketch the graph of y = from the graph of y = f(x), take note of the following
f ( x)
changes listed in the table on the right (wherever applicable):

1
Graph of y =
Graph of y = f(x) f ( x)
1 Any point: (a, b) except when b = 0  1
 a, 
 b
2 Oblique asymptote: y = ax + b Horizontal asymptote: y = 0 (x-axis)
3 Horizontal asymptote: y = k 1
Horizontal asymptote: y =
k
4a Vertical asymptote: x = d x-intercept: (d, 0)

4b x-intercept: (c, 0) Vertical asymptote: x = c

5a Minimum point: (s, t)  1

Maximum point:  s, 
 t
5b Maximum point: (u, v)  1
Minimum point:  u , 
 v
6a 1
y = f ( x ) → 0+ y= → +
f ( x)
1
y = f ( x ) → 0− y= → −
f ( x)
6b 1
y = f ( x ) → + y= → 0+
f ( x)
1
y = f ( x ) → − y= → 0−
f ( x)
Note:
1
1. y = f(x) and y = have the same signs.
f ( x)
i.e. for any x-value, the points on the two graphs lie on the same side of the x-axis.

1
2. When f(x) increases, decreases and vice versa i.e. the decreasing parts of the graph
f ( x)
1
of y = correspond to the increasing parts of the graph of y = f(x) and vice versa.
f ( x)
3. y = f ( x ) → 0+ means that the graph is approaching the x - axis from above.
y = f ( x ) → 0− means that the graph is approaching the x - axis from below.

Chapter 7: Transformations of Graph Page 23 of 31

 2023 SAJC JC1 H2 Mathematics
Lecture Notes
Example 14
2008/HCI/2/2 (Transformations involving graphs with oblique asymptote)
Learning points 
The diagram shows the graph of y = f ( x ) . The equation of the oblique
asymptote & vertical asymptote , also shown in the diagram, is y = x − 6 and
x = 1 respectively. There is a minimum at the point A(3, 0) and a maximum
1
at the point B( − , – 12).
2 y

y = x−6
1 x
O A

x=1
1
Sketch the graph of y = .
f ( x)
State the equations of any horizontal and/or vertical asymptotes, the coordinates of the points
corresponding to A, B and any points of intersection with the x-axis.

Solution:

y = f ( x) y=
1
f ( x)
Min A(3,0) Vertical
asymptote x = 3

1 Min B’
Max B( − , ‒12)
2  1 1
− ,− 
 2 12 
(1, 0) Oblique Horizontal
B’ asymptote asymptote y = 0
x=3 y=x–6
Vertical (1, 0)
asymptote x = 1

Students are expected

to know that the
oblique asymptote of
𝑦=f(𝑥) has been
transformed to the
horizontal asymptote
𝑦=0 for the reciprocal
graph.
Chapter 7: Transformations of Graph Page 24 of 31
 2023 SAJC JC1 H2 Mathematics
Lecture Notes
5 Graph of y = f ' ( x ) , the derivative of y = f ( x ) .
Let’s consider some simple graphs of y = f ( x) and its corresponding graph of y = f '( x) .

(a) y = f(x) y = f(x) y = f '( x)

Min point (0, 0 ) (0, 0)
Gradient is
For x  0 , negative.
f(x) is decreasing y = f ' ( x ) is
0 below x-axis

Gradient is
For x  0 , positive.
y = f '( x) f(x) is increasing y = f ' ( x ) is
y
above x-axis

x
0

(b) y = f ( x)
y y = f(x) y = f '( x)
Max point: (−3, 2) (−3, 0)
(−3, 2) Min point: (1, −2) (1, 0)
Asymptote x = 6 No change
x
(1, −2) Gradient is
x=6 For x  −3 , positive.
f(x) is increasing y = f ' ( x ) is
y = f '( x) above x-axis
y
Gradient is
For −3  x  1, negative.
f(x) is decreasing y = f ' ( x ) is
x
−3 1 below x-axis

x=6 Gradient is
For 1  x  6 , positive.
Question: Why is there a turning point in the f(x) is increasing y = f ' ( x ) is
interval −3  x  1?
above x-axis
Answer: Because there is a change in concavity of
the curve

Question: Why did we ignore the x and y-intercepts of y = f ( x) from the graph of y = f '( x) ?

Answer: Because unless they are stationary points, the gradient at these intercepts are non-zero
and so they are either a point above or below the x-axis in the graph of y = f '( x) .

Chapter 7: Transformations of Graph Page 25 of 31

 2023 SAJC JC1 H2 Mathematics
Lecture Notes

In general, to sketch the graph of y = f '( x) from the graph of y = f(x), take note of the following
changes listed in the table on the right (wherever applicable):

y = f ( x) y = f '( x)
1. Any point: (a, b) ( a,f ' ( a ))
2. Oblique asymptote y = ax + b Horizontal asymptote y = a
y y

y=a

x x
dy
When y = ax + b , =a.
dx
3. Vertical asymptote x = a Vertical asymptote x = a (remains)
y y

Gradient at x = a is undefined.
4. Stationary point at (a,b) i.e. f '(a ) = 0 x-intercept at x = a i.e. (a, 0)
5. Use the vertical asymptotes and x- Note that for each region in the graph of
coordinates of the stationary points to divide y = f ( x) , the sign of f '( x) corresponds to
the graph y = f ( x) into regions. sign of gradient of the graph of y = f ( x) .
6. For each region, draw three tangent lines. In each region, the tangent lines will either
have positive or negative gradients.
• Increasing function for y = f ( x)
[the tangent lines have positive gradients]
→ Curve lies above x-axis
• Decreasing function for y = f ( x)
[the tangent lines have negative gradients]
→ Curve lies below x-axis

7. Assign estimated values of the gradient of Locate the corresponding value of f '( x)
the tangent lines drawn. (estimate) accordingly.

8. Stationary points of inflection at x = a Maximum or Minimum points at (a,0)

More generally, points of inflexion at x = a Max or Min points at x = a

d
Note: f ''(x) = ( f '(x) ) = gradient of the curve y = f '(x)
dx

Chapter 7: Transformations of Graph Page 26 of 31

 2023 SAJC JC1 H2 Mathematics
Lecture Notes

Example 15

2008/HCI/2/2 [Transformations involving graphs with oblique asymptote]

The diagram shows the graph of y = f ( x ) . The equation of the oblique asymptote & vertical
asymptote , also shown in the diagram, is y = x − 6 and x = 1 respectively. There is a minimum at
1
the point A(3, 0) and a maximum at the point B( − , – 12).
2
y

y = x−6

1 A x
O

x =1
Sketch the graph of y = f ' ( x ) .
Solution:
y y = f ( x) y = f '( x)
Vertical asympote unchanged
x=1
1 x-intercept
Max B( − , ‒12)
y =1 2  1 
B’  − , 0 
 2 
A’ x Min A (3, 0) x-intercept
B’
A’ (3, 0)
Oblique Horizontal
asymptote asymptote y = 1
x =1 y=x–6
1 Gradient is
For x  − ,
2 positive.
f(x) is increasing y = f ' ( x ) is
above x-axis

For − 12  x  3 , Gradient is
x 1 negative.
f(x) is y = f ' ( x ) is
decreasing below x-axis

For x  3 , Gradient is
f(x) is increasing positive.
y = f ' ( x ) is
above x-axis
Chapter 7: Transformations of Graph Page 27 of 31
 2023 SAJC JC1 H2 Mathematics
Lecture Notes
6 Self-reading Examples

Example 16 [Extension of section 1(C)]

x
Given f ( x) = , x  −1 .
x +1

If g( x) = x , x  .
 x  x
Then gf ( x) = g  = = f ( x)
 x +1 x +1
Notice that gf(x) represents the modulus graph transformation applied to f(x).

x
y = f ( x) =
x +1

Question:
What about the graph of y = f ( − x ) ? How is this graph related to the graph of y = f ( x ) ?
y = f ( x)

 Replace x by − x : Reflect the graph of y = f ( x ) about the y -axis.

y = f ( − x)

 Replace x by x : see section 6.3

y = f (− x )

Chapter 7: Transformations of Graph Page 28 of 31

 2023 SAJC JC1 H2 Mathematics
Lecture Notes
Example 17
b( x + 3a )
The curve C has equation y = − , where a and b are positive constants. State, in terms of
x+a
a and b, the coordinates of the points where C intersects the axes, and the equations of the
asymptotes. Sketch the curve C, showing the asymptotes. Hence sketch on separate diagram, the
b( x + 3a )
graph of y = |f(x)| where f(x) = − .
x+a
Solution:

− b( x + 3a) − b( x + a) − 2ab 2ab

y= = = −b −
x+a x+a x+a
Asymptotes: x = −a and y = −b
− b(3a)
Axes intercepts: When x = 0 , y = = −3b  (0,−3b) is on the curve
a
When y = 0 , x = −3a  (− 3a,0) is on the curve.

Sketch of curve:

Sketch of y = |f(x)|

3b y = f ( x) y = f ( x)
Vertical asympote unchanged
x = −a

y=b ( −3a, 0) unchanged

(0, −3b) (0,3b)
− 3a
Asymptote y = −b Asymptote y = b
x= –a

Chapter 7: Transformations of Graph Page 29 of 31

 2023 SAJC JC1 H2 Mathematics
Lecture Notes
Example 18
y

(2, 3)

x
−1 0

The diagram above shows the graph of y = f (x) .

On separate diagrams, sketch the graphs of
(i) y = f (3x – 1)
(ii) y = f ( x )
showing clearly in each case the axial intercepts, the asymptotes and the coordinates of the
turning points.
Solution:
(i) y = f (3x – 1)

y y = f ( x) y = f (x – 1) y = f (3x – 1)

Horizontal unchanged unchanged

(1, 3) asympote
y=2
(2,3) (3,3) (1,3)
y=2
(0, 0) (1, 0) 1 
x  ,0
0 3 
Vertical x=0 x=0
x=0 asymptote
x = −1

(ii) y = f ( x ) y = f ( x) y = f ( x )
Horizontal Horizontal
y
asympote y = 2 asymptote y = 0
Max point (2,3) (2, 0)
Vertical unchanged
asymptote x = −1
For x  2 , Gradient is
y=0
x f(x) is increasing positive.
0 2
y = f ' ( x ) is
above x-axis
x = −1 For x  2 , Gradient is
f(x) is negative.
decreasing y = f ' ( x ) is
below x-axis

Chapter 7: Transformations of Graph Page 30 of 31

 2023 SAJC JC1 H2 Mathematics
Lecture Notes
Learning Experience 1

The diagram shows the speed-time graph for a particle over a period of 50 seconds.

Sketch the corresponding distance-time graph

for the motion of the particle during
the period of 50 seconds in the answer space.

Transformation of Graphs – A Checklist of Concepts

 I understand the effect of transformations on the graph of y = f ( x ) in terms of the
equation and coordinates of the graph as represented by y = f ( x ) + d (Example 1),
y = f ( x + a ) ( Example 2) , y = c f ( x ) (Example 4) and y = f ( bx ) (Example 5), and
combinations of these transformations (Example 8).
 I am able to describe in words the transformations represented by y = a f ( x ) ,
y = f ( x ) + a , y = f ( x + a ) and y = f ( ax ) , and combinations of these transformations
(Example 9, 10).
 I am able to interpret composite function as a sequence of transformations in a certain
order, and investigate the effect of transformations to a graph in different orders
(Example 9, 10, 11).
 I am able to sketch the graphs of y = |f(x)| (Example 12), y = f(|x|) (Example 13),
1
y= (Example 14), y = f '( x) (Example15) and y = f(-|x|) (Example 17), given the
f ( x)
graph of y = f ( x) .

Chapter 7: Transformations of Graph Page 31 of 31