Solving for Missing Sides Using Trig Ratios

Notes

• Not all calculators are the same!
• Learn how to enter trig ratios into YOUR favorite calculator using these examples:

Steps to Solve for a Missing Side of a Right Triangle

1. Set up the appropriate Trig Ratio to help you solve the problem.
2. Use inverse operations to solve for length of the missing side.

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Additional Notes

• Math Bits Notebook Lesson – Click Here

Video Lessons

Video # 1 – Solving Trig Functions Using Inverse Operations

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Video # 2 – The Shortcut! Solving Trig Functions Using a Diagram

• Once you fully understand how to solve using inverse operations, you can use a shortcut.

• Cover the unknown value & see which parts remain:
  • If vertical, divide
  • If horizontal, multiply

Video # 3 – Video Lesson Project (See Video Below Instructions)

Instructions

1. Draw the following right triangles (described below).
2. Find the missing angle for each triangle.
3. For each triangle, use the GIVEN acute angle & side length to create a trig ratio (sine, cosine, or tangent) to solve for a missing side of your choice.  Each trig ratio must be used once during your lesson.
4. Teach a lesson on HOW to find the missing length for each example triangle.

Requirements

• All angles must be reasonably drawn. Use an online protractor to get a visual idea of angle measures: https://www.visnos.com/demos/basic-angles
• Side lengths (given & determined) must be labeled with units, rounded to 100ths place.
• All angles must be labeled with degrees.

Right Triangle # 1
Acute Angle: _____°
Hypotenuse or Leg Length: _____

Right Triangle # 2
Acute Angle: _____°
Hypotenuse or Leg Length: _____

Right Triangle # 3
Acute Angle: _____°
Hypotenuse or Leg Length: _____

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* You may hide your face in the video.
* You must upload your work to Google Drive (& share w/me).

Video # 4 – Solving Real World Problems Using Trig Ratios