Activity Overview
Students are introduced to the concept of the Law of Cosines. They will explore the concept graphically, numerically, and algebraically. They will discover the Law of Cosines at the conclusion of the activity using TI-Nspire CAS.
Before the Activity
Students should be familiar with right triangle trigonometry. In the rectangular plane, they should also be able to represent coordinates in terms of trigonometric functions.
During the Activity
The first part (Problem 1) of this activity is intended to be student-centered with the teacher acting as a facilitator while students work cooperatively. Students will answer the question posed on the Q&A Notes page.
The second part (Problem 2) of this activity is intended to be teacher-led. Students will follow along using their handheld. Students will answer the questions posed on the Q&A Notes pages.