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GCSE Maths: Other Graphs (cubic, reciprocal)

Recognise and sketch cubic, reciprocal and exponential graphs from their equations. Practise it with adaptive questions for AQA, Edexcel, OCR and Eduqas.

AlgebraFoundation & HigherAQA · Edexcel · OCR · Eduqas

What you need to know

The concepts examiners test on other graphs (cubic, reciprocal), and what each one is really asking.

Identify a graph as linear, quadratic, cubic, reciprocal or exponential from its equation
Sketch the general shape of a cubic and a reciprocal graph
Explain what an asymptote is and why a reciprocal graph has two
Match a set of equations to a set of sketched graphs

Where marks get lost

The exam technique that separates a correct method from a correct answer.

  • Drawing a reciprocal graph as one connected curve instead of two branches
  • Letting a reciprocal curve touch or cross an axis
  • Confusing a cubic with a quadratic — a cubic turns twice, a parabola once
  • Forgetting that an exponential graph always passes through (0, 1)

Other Graphs (cubic, reciprocal) questions students ask

Is Other Graphs (cubic, reciprocal) on the Foundation paper?

Yes. Other Graphs (cubic, reciprocal) appears at both Foundation and Higher tier, though Higher papers take it further.

What should I know before starting Other Graphs (cubic, reciprocal)?

It builds on Straight-Line Graphs and Quadratic Graphs. If those feel shaky, practise them first — Other Graphs (cubic, reciprocal) questions assume them.

What is the most common mistake in Other Graphs (cubic, reciprocal)?

Drawing a reciprocal graph as one connected curve instead of two branches.

Which exam boards cover Other Graphs (cubic, reciprocal)?

All four we support — AQA, Edexcel, OCR and Eduqas. GCSE Maths subject content is set by the DfE, so the topic is common to every board; what changes is the paper structure and the grade boundaries.