Trigonometry is one of the topics in mathematics that the students in both high school and pre-undergraduate levels need to learn. Generally, the topic covers trigonometric functions, trigonometric equations, trigonometric identities and solving oblique triangles using the Laws of Sines and Cosines. However, when solving the oblique triangles,…

Using MAPLE enables students to consider many examples which would be very tedious to work out by hand. This applies to graph plotting as well as to algebraic manipulation. The challenge is to use these observations to develop the students' understanding of mathematical concepts. In this note an interesting relationship arising from inverse…

Prospective secondary teachers can explore mathematics at their own level by using the law of cosines to establish connections between topics that are usually taught separately such as cosine of the difference of two angles, Cauchy's inequality, determinants, sine of the difference of two angles, triangle inequality, and inner product of two…

Derivations of elementary trigonometric identities involving constants (namely, particular values of the sine function) are presented. (MK)

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)

Describes trigonometric calculations of the "fullness" (as viewed from Earth) of the outer planets as a function of their semi-major axes and their positions relative to Earth and the sun. (WRM)

Describes a five-step graphing method for various trigonometric periodic functions. Emphases is on teaching constants and functions. (YP)

Discussed is the problem of inscribing a rectangle of maximum area in a given right triangle. Answered is whether there is an advantageous orientation and whether a corner of the rectangle of maximum area can lie on the midpoint of a leg of the triangle. (KR)

Concern is expressed that trigonometry is being de-emphasized at the secondary level, and that even incoming college students with excellent mathematics backgrounds and aptitudes appear to be "drawing blanks" on even the most fundamental trigonometric concepts. Teaching trigonometry as the ultimate high school subject is promoted. (MP)

Describes how to measure animals pace, stride, and step angle in degrees. Presents cases of measurements for dinosaur trackways. (YP)

This article, which is organized around a single, well-known algorithm for root extraction, presents a way of incorporating dynamical systems into the teaching of mathematics. Included are sample exercises using complex numbers and the computer where students have the opportunity to do some analysis on this algorithm. (KR)

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…

This document contains the course syllabus and 12 independent practice modules for a college level mathematics course designed to provide the necessary foundation for success in calculus, develop logical thinking skills, and enhance analytic skills through problem solving. Topics include relations and functions; inequalities; complex numbers;…

This book for future mathematics teachers emphasizes technology as a teaching tool; development of teachers who are self-motivated, lifelong learners; and pedagogical features that engage and motivate students. It includes examples and activities to enhance learning. Part 1, "General Fundamentals," includes (1) "Introduction"; (2) "Learning,…