Right Triangle Trigonometry

This is one lesson in a larger Unit Plan that introduces triangular relationships through the lens of building a treehouse with a variety of triangular characteristics.  It has proofs, real world problems, constructions, a unit project, assessments, and more. In Lesson 14, “Trigonometry", students develop formulas for sine, cosine and tangent through discovery activities. This resource includes a variety of downloadable files, including student worksheets. The entire unit plan can be found hereThis lesson plan has several activities involving Trig Functions. It includes a hands-on activity and real world problems. It also includes an activity to differentiate the lesson if needed for some students.

Standards & Objectives

Essential and guiding questions: 
  • How do you decide when to use Trigonometry Ratios, Pythagorean Theorem, and Properties of Special Right Triangles?
  • Trigonometry – that sounds hard!  What are some real life examples when trig ratios could be used to make life simpler?
  • Please see Lesson 14 Notes to the Teacher.

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Applying

Helpful Hints

Materials:

  • Paper
  • scissors
  • tape
  • ruler
  • protractor
  • scientific calculator

References

Contributors: