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10th, 11th Grades  Project 2 weeks

Trig Trek: Real-World Angles Unplugged!

Brett R
KY.HS.F.20
KY.HS.F.16
KY.HS.F.19
Productive Collaborator
Critical Thinker
+ 1 more
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Purpose

The purpose of this project is to immerse students in the practical applications of trigonometry by engaging them in a collaborative, real-world learning experience. Through partnerships with university geography experts, students will explore how trigonometry is integral to mapping and navigation technologies. By planning a cross-country road trip, they will apply trigonometric principles to solve real-world problems, fostering critical thinking and collaboration. This project aims to deepen their understanding of trigonometry while developing skills essential for their future academic and personal growth.

Learning goals

Students will develop a deep understanding of trigonometric identities and formulas, applying them to real-world navigation scenarios. They will collaborate with geography experts to explore the practical use of trigonometry in mapping technologies, enhancing their problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Through designing a cross-country road trip, students will demonstrate their ability to calculate distances and angles, considering real-world factors like fuel efficiency and travel time. This project will also foster students' abilities to work effectively in teams, communicate insights, and reflect on their learning experiences.
Standards
  • [Kentucky] KY.HS.F.20 - (+) Proving identities and formulas within the context of trigonometry.
  • [Kentucky] KY.HS.F.16 - (+) Understand and use the unit circle.
  • [Kentucky] KY.HS.F.19 - (+) Use inverse functions to solve trigonometric equations that arise in modeling contexts; evaluate the solutions using technology and interpret them in terms of the context.
Competencies
  • Productive Collaborator - Engages with others to achieve a common goal through building positive relationships, actively listening, showing empathy, and making individual contributions to a larger group.
  • Critical Thinker - Thinks deeply and makes informed decisions to create solutions or new understanding supported by relevant and reliable evidence.
  • Empowered Learner - Demonstrates mastery and application of academic competencies. Develops the skills and dispositions to persist through difficulties and plan for a future of self-improvement.

Products

Students will collaboratively create a comprehensive cross-country road trip itinerary that incorporates trigonometric calculations for distance, angles, and optimal routes. This project will include a presentation that details their problem-solving process, showcasing their ability to apply trigonometric identities and formulas to real-world navigation challenges. Additionally, students will produce a reflective journal documenting their learning journey, insights gained from community partners, and personal contributions to the group project.

Launch

Kick off the project with an immersive 'Trigonometry in Action' workshop, where students collaborate with geography department experts to explore real-world mapping projects. This hands-on session will involve interactive demonstrations of trigonometric calculations used in navigation technologies, sparking curiosity and setting the stage for the road trip planning challenge. Students will engage in discussions and activities that highlight the significance of trigonometry in real-world applications, providing a dynamic introduction to the project's essential question.

Exhibition

Host a "Trigonometry Road Trip Expo" where students present their cross-country road trip plans to an audience of peers, teachers, and community members, including the geography department partners. Each group will showcase their use of trigonometric principles in calculating routes, distances, and angles, while addressing real-world constraints like fuel efficiency and travel time. Attendees can engage with interactive maps and digital presentations, providing feedback and asking questions to deepen understanding and appreciation of the students' work.