Trigonometry Project

Why Trigonometry?

Students keep asking me why they are learning trig and how it helps in real life. Yes. It has a lot of applications in real life when you dive deeper in Trigonometry in PreCalculus and Physics classes. One of them is Bearings. But forget it for now. Let's get back to Geometry. We will apply the Trig in right triangles to calculate the height of the Lanier buildings.

What you need on the day of the activity

Clinometer - Tape measure - Paper - Pen or pencil - Assistant

How

Please follow instructions below to get things done to be ready for the day of the activity. You may choose to work in group, maximum 2 students per group or individually.

Note: If you don't get things done to be ready for the day of the activity, you will not be allowed to participate in the activity.

Work Sample

You stand 40 ft from the North Lanier building. The angle of elevation from your eyes (5 ft above the ground) to the top of the the building is 47°. How tall is the building? Round your answer to the nearest foot.

Homework: individual work

Calculate the height of your house or apartment. You must show work or reasoning to earn full credit.

If you want to see how my former students enjoyed this activity, please click here.