How to Find Intercepts of Rational Functions

Miacademy & MiaPrep Learning Channel

This instructional math video guides students through the process of finding x- and y-intercepts for rational functions. It connects graphical understanding with algebraic techniques, demonstrating why intercepts occur where they do on a coordinate plane. The narrator, Justin, breaks down the methodology into clear steps: setting $y=0$ to find x-intercepts (focusing on the numerator) and setting $x=0$ to find y-intercepts (focusing on the constant terms). A key focus of the video is distinguishing between true intercepts and holes (removable discontinuities). Through a detailed example, the video illustrates how factoring polynomial numerators and denominators reveals common factors that result in holes rather than intercepts. This addresses a common student pitfall in Algebra 2 and Pre-Calculus. Teachers can use this video to introduce or reinforce the algebraic manipulation of rational functions. It serves as an excellent bridge between lessons on factoring polynomials and lessons on graphing rational functions. The clear visual aids and step-by-step practice problem provide a solid foundation for understanding function behavior at the axes.