Using a simple trigonometric limit, we provide an intuitive geometric proof of the Singular Value Decomposition of an arbitrary matrix.

We illustrate and discuss the method, called CORDIC, which many hand calculators use to calculate the trigonometric and other functions.

This article shows how to use six parameters describing the International Space Station's orbit to predict when and in what part of the sky observers can look for the station as it passes over their location. The method requires only a good background in trigonometry and some familiarity with elementary vector and matrix operations. An included…

The use of trigonometry in making astronomical calculations prior to the invention of logarithms is discussed. (JT)

Non-linear second-order differential equations whose solutions are the elliptic functions "sn"("t, k"), "cn"("t, k") and "dn"("t, k") are investigated. Using "Mathematica", high precision numerical solutions are generated. From these data, Fourier coefficients are determined yielding approximate formulas for these non-elementary functions that are…

A conceptually elementary and geometrically based algorithm is presented to indicate how trigonometric functions can be calculated without using calculus. (MN)

Presented are five short articles which describe innovations in mathematics teaching. Included are "Polar Summation,""The Age of the Solar System,""Forward Homework--A Motivational Tool,""Trigonometric Identities through Calculus," and "Algorithms for Evaluation of Polynomials." (CW)

A method is given for computer calculation of transcendental functions. (MK)

The instructional strategy described was used to incorporate both the computer and the hand calculator into trigonometry courses at an Ohio community college. The computer was used to generate different problem sets for individual students and, at the same time, solution sets for the instructor. The students were required to use calculators to…

Argues that while microcomputer and graphing calculators have evolved to a stage where they should be used routinely by mathematics students at all levels, there is sometimes potential to mislead students with computer generated graphs. Examples are included. (PK)

The intent of this text is to provide students in a variety of science and technology disciplines with a basic understanding of mathematics commonly used in introductory texts in such disciplines. The first five chapters develop skills needed for efficient numerical calculation. The last five chapters examine the basic properties of elementary…

Suggested are features which should be considered before selecting a specific interactive graphics package. Features that allow for accurate estimates of roots of functions and solutions to systems of equations are illustrated. Six graphics packages are compared including display, tabular options, misleading graphics, printing options, functions…