Utilizes vector mathematics to explain the reflective properties of a corner cube retroreflector, consisting of three plane mirrors assembled at right angles with a common vertex. Analyzes the useful property that an incident beam of light at any point in this reflector will return on a parallel path. (MDH)

The analysis and simulation of spiral growth in plants integrates algebra and trigonometry in a botanical setting. When the ideas presented here are used in a mathematics classroom/computer lab, students can better understand how basic assumptions about plant growth lead to the golden ratio and how the use of circular functions leads to accurate…

In this article students' understanding of trigonometric functions in the context of two college trigonometry courses is investigated. The first course was taught by a professor unaffiliated with the study in a lecture-based course, while the second was taught using an experimental instruction paradigm based on Gray and Tall's (1994) notion of…

This trigonometry curriculum guide, produced under the direction of the State of Louisiana's Department of Public Education, is a segment of the educational program established in response to accountability, assessment, and competency-based education laws. This guide is designed to represent the best thinking of a selected statewide committee…

Discusses solutions to the problem of maximizing the range of a projectile. Presents three references that solve the problem with and without the use of calculus. Offers a fourth solution suitable for introductory physics courses that relies more on trigonometry and the geometry of the problem. (MDH)

Presents the Morris Loe Angle Trisection Approximation Method to introduce students to areas of mathematics where approximations are used when exact answers are difficult or impossible to obtain. Examines the accuracy of the method using the laws of sines and cosines and a BASIC computer program that is provided. (MDH)

Presents two ideas to help beginning mathematics teachers. The first presents a way to record and grade homework. The second suggests a manipulative to help students understand the trigonometric concept of reference angle. (MDH)

Utilizes a computer-generated graph to solve an equation for methods using trigonometric tables or less sophisticated calculators would likely fail because of round-off errors and limitations of the instruments. Discusses how this new technology can be utilized in mathematics instruction. (MDH)

Develops the Pythagorean Theorem in the context of the Van Hiele levels by presenting activities appropriate for each level. Activities point to preparatory development (level 0), give 3 different versions of Euclid's proof (levels 1, 2, and 3), give some generalizations of the theorem (level 3), and explore the Pythagorean relationship in other…

Describes an activity to study the concepts of force and gravity. Students use trigonometry to measure the height of a water balloon shot into the air by a giant slingshot by two methods. A lesson plan provides materials needed, procedures, a chart to record data, and extensions for the activity. (MDH)

The primary aim of this guide is to aid teachers in planning and preparing a senior high school mathematics course for students preparing for college work. It is divided into separate one-semester courses of seven chapters each. The first-semester course consists of a traditional approach to the introduction of trigonometry and trigonometric…

Two teachers share practical tips for teaching secondary school mathematics. The tips focus on effective use of homework and teaching trigonometric concepts. (PK)

This quantitative-qualitative study seeks to determine the effectiveness of TIMS (Thomasian Interactive Multimedia Software) in teaching the introductory topics in Trigonometry. The acceptability of the software to the student respondents was established using the content, design, interface, and effectiveness of the media used as the evaluation…

This project was coordinated and funded by the California Partnership for Achieving Student Success (Cal-PASS). Cal-PASS is a data sharing system linking all segments of education. Its purpose is to improve student transition and success from one educational segment to the next. Cal-PASS' math deconstruction projects were initiated by the faculty…

This project was coordinated and funded by the California Partnership for Achieving Student Success (Cal-PASS). Cal-PASS is a data sharing system linking all segments of education. Its purpose is to improve student transition and success from one educational segment to the next. Cal-PASS' standards deconstruction project was initiated by the…