MATH 138 - Trigonometry

Credit Hours: 3
Lecture Hours: 3
Laboratory Hours: 0

Prerequisite(s): MATH 128 or High School Geometry (or Equivalent)

Restriction(s): None

Corequisite(s): None

This course will explore the properties of triangles and the functions which result from the analysis of the right triangle. Using this foundation, study will be extended to the following topics: the unit circle, graphs of trigonometric functions, trigonometric identities, the law of sines and law of cosines, vectors, polar coordinates, and direct applications of these topics.

Student Learning Outcomes of the Course: General Education Learning Outcomes (apply to all math courses that meet GE1 requirements).

Students will demonstrate the ability to interpret and draw inferences from mathematical models such as formulas, graphs, tables, and schematics
Students will demonstrate the ability to represent mathematical information symbolically, visually, numerically and verbally.
Students will demonstrate the ability to employ quantitative methods such as, arithmetic, algebra, geometry, or statistics to solve problems.
Students will demonstrate the ability to estimate and check mathematical results for reasonableness.
Students will demonstrate the ability to recognize the limits of mathematical and statistical methods.

Course Specific Learning Outcomes

Students will demonstrate the ability to predict and describe the behavior of trig functions based on the parameters of an equation.
Students will demonstrate the ability to identify and graph common trigonometric functions, as well as write equations when presented with trigonometric graphs or other relevant information (amplitude, period, frequency, vertical and horizontal shifts).
Students will demonstrate the ability to apply the concepts of similar triangles, common trigonometric ratios, the law of sines, and law of cosines, to find missing dimensions of a triangle, with an emphasis on applied problems and force vector problems.
Students will demonstrate the ability recognize the appropriate situations in which to apply common trigonometric ratios, the law of sines, and the law of cosines, and other methods to solving applied problems requiring trigonometry.