Coordinate Geometry

Geometry: Coordinate Geometry

Read the following SAT test question and then select the correct answer. 

Always be sure to read the question carefully and make a note of the bottom line.  Then assess your options and choose the most efficient method to attack the problem.  When you have an answer, loop back to verify that it matches the bottom line.

In the xy-plane, line l passes through the points (a, 0) and (0, 2a), where a > 1.  What is the slope of line l?

Bottom Line: slope of l = ?

Assess Your Options: You could select a number larger than 1, plug it in for the variable a, and then work the problem.  However, if you peek down at the answer choices, notice that some have a variable still in the problem.  It will take you longer to plug in a number than to work the problem using the variables.

Attack the Problem: Your bottom line is a slope, so use the formula for the slope of a line. The formula for slope of a line is:

To find the change in y coordinates, subtract the first y-value from the second y-value.  Do the same with the x values:

The variable will cancel when you simplify the problem.  Your answer is -2.

Loop Back:  You found the slope of the line, so you are ready to look down at your answer choices.

(A) -2

(B)

(C) 2

(D) -2a

(E) 2a

On sat.collegeboard.org, 42% of the responses were correct.

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