Make - Trigonometry: Build your way from triangles to analytic geometry

Trigonometry has 2000-year-old roots in practical endeavors, but it is often taught theoretically. This book uses 3D printable models and physical objects to develop intuition and explore concepts in trigonometry and basic analytic geometry. It is aimed at high school students in Algebra II or Pre-Calculus and is designed to bridge the gap between Geometry and Calculus. The models are available for download in a freely-available open source repository and can be 3D printed or modified by the student.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 300 pages
Publication date: 05 September 2023
Publisher: O'Reilly Media

Trigonometry, with its ancient roots dating back over 2000 years, finds its applications in everyday practical endeavors such as determining the size of distant objects or navigating from one point to another. While it is often taught in a theoretical and abstract manner, this book takes a different approach. By utilizing 3D printable models and readily available physical objects like wire and cardboard tubes, readers can develop a deeper intuition and understanding of trigonometry and basic analytic geometry concepts.

Through in-depth explanations and manipulative models, readers will be able to visualize the thought processes of the mathematicians who invented these concepts. They will also have the opportunity to conduct math experiments to witness the ingenuity of ancient navigators and surveyors.

The book's analytic geometry section connects equations to these intuitive concepts, providing a deeper understanding through detailed explanations of conic section manipulative models. This book is designed for high school students who are enrolled in Algebra II or Pre-Calculus courses. It offers a unique perspective on these topics, highlighting their geometrical and practical aspects, which can sometimes be overshadowed by the complexity of algebraic equations.

In addition to the theoretical content, this book encourages readers to engage in hands-on learning by printing the 3D printable models using a consumer-grade filament-based 3D printer. The models are freely available for download in an open-source repository, created using the free program OpenSCAD. By printing and modifying the models, students can not only deepen their understanding of trigonometry but also learn basic coding skills along the way.

Whether you are a student seeking to enhance your mathematical knowledge or a curious individual interested in the history and applications of trigonometry, this book provides a valuable and engaging approach to learning these essential concepts.

ISBN-13: 9781680457988