Ryan Shannon
Connections in Secondary School Mathematics (EMAT 6500)
Dr. Kevin Moore
November 29, 2011
A Conceptual Analysis of Trigonometric
Functions Fore Shadow
By reading texts and tutoring students, I have noticed that students face challenges in understanding trigonometric functions. Here I explore the challenges students face and show how students’ educational backgrounds can leave them with gaps in their understanding of trigonometric functions. Here too, I suggest ways these gaps can be filled and avoided. Gaps in student understanding can be created by the textbook definitions used to teach trigonometric functions; and by disproportionate applications of trigonometric functions to triangles and circles. Also, by using these functions without a strong understanding of radians and the unit circle students will have find issues in understanding. Students need definitions they can apply to understanding and solving trigonometric problems.