How is the cosecant function like a tattoo? Pupils learn about the geometric representations on a unit circle of all six trigonometric functions through a video. They also learn why secant, cosecant, and cotangent ended up affixed in mathematics, like tattoos, even though they are not particularly useful.

Concepts

trigonometric functions, cosecant, unit circle, secant, cotangent, tangent, sine, cosine

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Additional Tags

math

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Instructional Ideas

• Use the video once a unit on the six trigonometric functions is complete

Classroom Considerations

• Note that the video includes a clip of someone actually getting a tattoo, which some parents may find objectionable
• Learners should have experience with trigonometric ratios and the unit circle, as well as with similar triangle

• This video is hosted on YouTube

Pros

• Graphics promote understanding
• Concise explanations

Cons

• None