Can high school students use radians in trigonometry?

  • Context: High School 
  • Thread starter Thread starter flashgordon2!
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SUMMARY

High school students can indeed use radians in trigonometry, although it may initially appear simpler to stick with degrees. The discussion highlights that while radians may complicate certain problems, they are fundamentally similar to degrees in terms of trigonometric functions. The transition to radians requires additional effort, but it is a necessary step for understanding advanced mathematical concepts. The adoption of radians in high school curricula is not expected to happen quickly.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic trigonometric functions (sine, cosine, tangent)
  • Familiarity with degrees and their conversion to radians
  • Knowledge of mathematical problem-solving techniques
  • Basic algebra skills for manipulating trigonometric equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the differences between radians and degrees in trigonometry
  • Explore advanced trigonometric identities involving radians
  • Learn about the applications of radians in calculus
  • Study the historical context and significance of radians in mathematics
USEFUL FOR

High school mathematics teachers, students preparing for advanced math courses, and anyone interested in the foundational concepts of trigonometry.

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flashgordon2! said:
http://www.physorg.com/news6555.html
Hahaha

I've just read the first chapter of the book. At a long push it might seem simpler at high school level maths when you haven't even learned about radians. However it isn’t really any different at all from trigonometry apart from the fact it takes a lot more work the more complex the problem. I do not see people adopting this any time soon.
 

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