Students distinguish linear additive change from exponential multiplicative change by using differences, ratios, tables, equations, graphs, and comparisons of initial values and long-term behavior. They determine initial values and growth or decay factors, evaluate functions of the form $f(x)=ab^x$, recognize growth and decay, write models from contexts and equally spaced tables, and interpret basic graphs, transformations, intercepts, domain, range, end behavior, and horizontal asymptotes. They solve simple exponential equations by rewriting both sides with a common positive base and equating exponents, without using logarithmic methods, regression, continuous compounding, or generalized exponential models.