Type of Class:
          Advanced High School Geometry

Related VA SOL: G.7

Time Frame:
         Ninety minute block class

Objectives:

  • Mathematics: Students will learn a little history of trigonometry while defining the sine and cosine functions using the unit circle.
  • Students will qualitatively and quantitatively compare the numerical and graphical characteristics of the sine and cosine functions.

Materials:

  • Geometer’s Sketchpad
  • Pencil
  • Paper

Link to activity: http://curry.edschool.virginia.edu/teacherlink/content/math/activities/skp-trig/[1]

Assessment: Students turn in graphs with questions from the worksheet

Suggestions/Comments: A Printed copy for each group of students would be best for this activity so that each group could then work at their own pace.  Constant movement by the teacher will keep students on task and make it easier for the students to ask any questions they may have.  Questions will be answered easier if the teacher goes through the lesson once or twice before handing the activity over to the students.

Description of Activity

·        This activity has students geometrically construct and investigate the graphs of sine and cosine based upon the lengths of the sides of a reference triangle.


 
 
[1] Lesson derived from Curry School of Education, University of Virginia