A set of computer-oriented, supplemental activities is offered which can be used with a course in advanced algebra and trigonometry. The activities involve use of the BASIC programming language; it is assumed that the teacher is familiar with programming in BASIC. Students will learn some BASIC; however, the intent is not to develop proficient…

Uses a variation of Hansen's surveyor problem to illustrate how exploring students' assumptions can lead to interesting mathematical insights. Describes methods that utilize self-stick notes and overhead transparencies to adapt computer software to specific classroom needs. (MDH)

Describes the derivation of the parameters incorporated into computer programs that are utilized to draw hypocycloids, which are the loci of points traced out by a point on a disk as it rolls against a circle and its interior. Includes information to obtain copies of the programs described. (JJK)

Uses LOGO to enhance the applicability of curve stitching in the mathematics curriculum. Presents the formulas and computer programs for the construction of parabolas, concentric circles, and epicycloids. Diagrams of constructed figures are provided. (MDH)

Argues that students should have dynamic perceptual experience with the concepts central to circular functions. Includes a computer program, designed for Apple II, to provide such experience. (PK)

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)

Recounts a classroom experience which investigated whether any integral solutions for the law of cosines would be analogous to "Pythagorean triples." Several interesting relationships were discovered. (PK)

To help students develop measurement skills using metric units, an activity on making a box is described, with a worksheet for students. A second article discusses graphing elementary functions with a real domain, while a third article describes computer-assisted practice in graphing sine and cosine functions. (MNS)

Two trigonometry problems are presented. The first compares the graphs of the functions arcsin[sin(x)], arccos[cos(x)], and the identity function f(x)=x. The second, using the law of cosines, demonstrates that the solution of a triangle knowing two sides and the excluded angle is no longer ambiguous. (MDH)

Described is a solution to the problem and a discussion of a computer estimation of the probability. A computer program written in Turbo Pascal and two sample runs are provided. Computations for a more general problem of this nature and changes in the program necessary for use with Apple Pascal are appended. (CW)

A mult tile is a set of polygons each of which can be dissected into smaller polygons similar to the original set of polygons. Using a recursive LOGO method that requires solutions to various geometry and trigonometry problems, dissections of mult tiles are carried out repeatedly to produce tile patterns. (MDH)

In polar coordinates, the intersection of the graphs of two functions, f(x) and g(x), does not always correspond to the solutions of the equation f(x) = g(x). Presented are examples to illustrate this concept, proofs demonstrating why this is true, and a computer program to simultaneously plot polar coordinate graphs. (MDH)

Presented is a series of eight hands-on exercises using Apple II computer graphics to investigate the following characteristics of periodic functions: period, amplitude, horizontal shift, and vertical shift. Detailed teacher instructions and the accompanying computer program are included. (MDH)

Discussed is the place and teaching of trigonometry in a NCTM Standards-based mathematics curriculum. Presented is how these standards can be implemented in a technology-rich environment that encourages reasoning, communication, problem solving, and confidence building. Examples focus on functions, graphical sense, modeling, and identities. (KR)

The quadratic function can be modeled in real life by a suspension bridge that supports a uniform weight. This activity uses concrete models and computer generated graphs to discover the mathematical model of the shape of the main cable of a suspension bridge. (MDH)