In the quadratic function y = a (x - h)2 + k, if: Neuve 1. a > 0, the parabola opens upward and if a < 0, the parabola opens downward. 2. a >1 or a <-1, the parabola is narrower as compared to y = x2 and wider if 0 < a < 1. 3. h > 0, the parabola translates h units to the right and if h < 0, the parabola translates h units to the left. 4. k > 0, the parabola translates k units upward and if k< 0, the parabola translates k units downward.