AN INTEGRATED UNDERSTANDING OF TRIGONOMETRIC FUNCTIONS

ABSTRACT

Trigonometry is an important school subject not only for mathematics but also for some other fields. A robust understanding of trigonometric functions requires different algebraic, geometric, and graphical aspects due to the complex nature of the topic. Despite limited, the literature on trigonometry learning and teaching reveals that it is a difficult topic for students, and that students develop fragmented understanding of trigonometric functions. This study addressed two important points which appear to be problematic in research literature and educational practices: a broad understanding model of trigonometry based on conceptual connections, and a new instructional approach of trigonometric functions. The understanding model comprises different trigonometric contexts and their connections, and the new instructional approach puts a great emphasis on the connections in this model. A major difference from traditional teaching methods is that the new method starts with a focus on arcs in the unit circle together with the construction of the sine graph rather than an early introduction of radians. Based on this understanding model and the new approach, the study examined students’ concept development and understanding of the sine and cosine functions.

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