This site contains a Geogebra applet that plots a cubic Bezier curve. The user can move and adjust four control points. It is used to explore cubic Bézier curve
This site would be best for individual review or investigation and it could also be incorporated into a homework assignment.
Technical Requirements:
Any browser.
Identify Major Learning Goals:
Implement Mathematical Concepts
Visually explore graphs and construction of a cubic Bezier curve.
Target Student Population:
Graduate School.
Students taking Numerical Analysis or related discipline that has to do with function approximation.
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
Basic Linear Algebra, Differential Calculus, Polynomial Functions.
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
It is clear and concise.
A cubic Bézier curve is a smooth, flexible curve defined by four points: a start point, an end point, and two "control points" that influence the curve's direction and shape. It is expressed using a mathematical formula that uses powers of three to determine the curve's path from the start point, bending toward the control points, and finally arriving at the end point. These curves are fundamental to modern computer graphics, computer-aided design, and animation. This tool is designed to help users visualize Bézier curves. The applet is simple but informative. The interface allows the user to see how cubic Bézier curve is drawn and shows the steps of its construction. The graphical display is very clear and looks like a standard textbook illustration.
Concerns:
It should include some references to discover the application in its multiple fields.
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
This material promotes conceptual understanding.
The applet does one thing and does it well. As a support and demonstration tool, instructors can use the site to illustrate textbook examples or explain the concept behind Bezier curve. Students could benefit from visiting the site and spending 20-30 minutes checking their homework or working through a planned worksheet.
Concerns:
The site containing the applet would benefit from a link to some introductory text on vector-functions defined parametrically. Having guided exercises that walk students through the process would also be a big plus.
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
This is a very straightforward applet to use. The average user should be able to run it immediately. Because there are very few control fields, users can create a graph quickly.
They can learn on your own pace from this engaging material.
Concerns:
It takes a while for the applet to load. Also, presence of adds is a bit distracting.
Creative Commons:
Search by ISBN?
It looks like you have entered an ISBN number. Would you like to search using what you have
entered as an ISBN number?
Searching for Members?
You entered an email address. Would you like to search for members? Click Yes to continue. If no, materials will be displayed first. You can refine your search with the options on the left of the results page.
Searching for Members?
You entered an email address. Would you like to search for members? Click Yes to continue. If no, materials will be displayed first. You can refine your search with the options on the left of the results page.