Student's Self Discovery of Right Triangle Trigonometry.

Author

Elizabeth DeReu, University of Montana, MissoulaFollow

Graduation Year

2019

Graduation Month

May

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

School or Department

Mathematical Sciences

Major

Mathematics – Mathematics Education

Faculty Mentor Department

Mathematical Sciences

Faculty Mentor

Matt Roscoe

Keywords

Trigonometry, right triangle, learning

Subject Categories

Geometry and Topology

Abstract

Research has shown that right triangle trigonometry poses a significant learning challenge for high school geometry students. One potential source of this challenge is the tendency for students to experience right triangle trig as an exclusively action-oriented set of strategies (i.e. SOHCAHTOA). This article describes a teaching experiment where students built understanding of right triangle trig using a unique set of manipulatives and direct measurement. Results of the experiment show that the lessons provided opportunities for students to develop their understanding beyond action-oriented strategies.

Honors College Research Project

Yes

GLI Capstone Project

no

Recommended Citation

DeReu, Elizabeth, "Student's Self Discovery of Right Triangle Trigonometry." (2019). Undergraduate Theses, Professional Papers, and Capstone Artifacts. 223.
https://scholarworks.umt.edu/utpp/223