Year 10

Trigonometric Trajectories

Students explore innovative real-world applications of trigonometry by investigating and constructing ziplines and "glider poles".

This is a classic reSolve sequence aligned with the Australian Curriculum V8.4. It is only available as a downloadable package.

 

Students’ understanding of trigonometric and Pythagorean relationships are reinforced through two engaging real-world contexts: researching and building a thrilling (yet safe) zip-line ride for a doll, and outlining a proposal for building glider poles in their local area.

This sequence is for students who are familiar with Pythagoras’ theorem and angles of depression and elevation. There are opportunities for students to independently design and conduct practical experiments by creating models, drawing diagrams, and conducting and refining practical experiments.

 

Lesson 1: World’s Greatest Zip-lines

Students apply known trigonometric and Pythagorean relationships to investigate the dimensions of adventure zip-lines around the world. They plan, draw, model and construct a zip-line for a Barbie doll.

Lesson 2: Glider Poles

Students learn about the importance of building glider poles by the sides of highways to allow gliding mammals to cross wide roads. They then design a pair of glider poles that are appropriate for the animals and roads in their region, using their knowledge of trigonometry, particularly angles of elevation and depression.

 

Last updated June 22 2020.

This is a classic reSolve sequence aligned with the Australian Curriculum V8.4. It is only available as a downloadable package.

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