Students in the Algebra II math class have moved into a study of periodic functions. After reviewing the trigonometric ratios of sine, cosine, and tangent, the unit circle was introduced. Students worked to convert degree measure into radian measure based on how many radians the corresponding arc measured and what fraction of the whole circle they were.
In order to determine the coordinates of the unit circle, students first put the unit circle on a coordinate grid and looked at the coordinates or the intersection of the circle and the ray of the angle going counter-clockwise. They made some observations about the relationships between values and corresponding angles in different quadrants.
Finally, they discovered the exact coordinates by creating triangles within the unit circle and applying trigonometric ratios. We finished this work with solidifying our knowledge through a variety of friendly competitions, both in teams and individuals. I am proud and impressed with the work students did in order to develop and understand the unit circle!
