Creating Trig Tutorial: Are You Ready to Master Trigonometry?

In summary, the conversation discusses a student's dilemma in designing a math project without fully understanding what it entails. The project involves creating interactive tutorials for trigonometry using Macromedia Flash. The student also seeks advice on incorporating witty elements and historical context into the tutorial and pronunciation help for certain names. Various resources and suggestions are shared among the participants.
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[EDIT: Scroll down to see my subsequent postings if you are too lazy to read this.]


I am desperately in need of help.

Some weeks ago, I inadvertently signed up to do a mathematics project, not realising that it really was about designing tutorials (preferably interactive) for students. I was having my exams at the time, so I did not read the application form thoroughly, but just glanced through it (we were doing three two-hour long papers a day!). I swear that there was nothing in the form that said anything about designing tutorials, but the mathematics teacher wants me to do just that for my project.

The original project that I had in mind was suggested by DamnedCharming here on PF and it can be found here: https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=16435

It's really just about numerically integrating [tex] \frac{d^2x}{dt^2} = -x [/tex] to get a [tex]x = cos (t)[/tex] curve.

I have no choice but to design a tutorial for trigonometry, because I have already chosen the title (Introduction to Trigonometry and Deriving the Cos(x) and Sin(x) curve) two weeks ago and cannot change it. My teacher wants me to use the Macromedia Flash program so I'm learning that from basic right now.

I was thinking of maybe doing the tutorial (in Macromedia Flash of-course) with a little bit of trig-related history, introducing the sine and cosine functions and the tangent function, but then concentrating more on the sine and cosine functions, and then eventually using calculus to show them how a cosine or sine curve can be drawn in Excel(without using the COS function they have). It's a little impractical not to use the COS function in Excel, but this method IS an alternative even though it is not as accurate.

I'm trying to make my tutorial as witty as possible, and I'll also shoot a video of myself for the intro. Is importing a .mov or .avi file into Flash possible? Does anyone know any interesting Trigonometry-related history?

I would appreciate it if anyone could suggest any witty lines or analogies to use in this tutorial
 
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Chen provided this link http://www.phy.ntnu.edu.tw/java/shm/shm.html

I was wondering how I could draw something similar to the animation with Flash. Please if you have any files you think might help me out, please PM me and I'll provide you with my e-mail address. Thanks a lot.
 
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How do you pronounce De Moivre? I'm going to be narrating this whole movie so I need a bit of help on pronouncing names.
 

1. What is trigonometry?

Trigonometry is a branch of mathematics that deals with the relationships between the sides and angles of triangles. It is used to solve problems involving right triangles and is also essential in many fields such as physics, engineering, and navigation.

2. Why is it important to learn trigonometry?

Trigonometry is important because it provides a fundamental understanding of how triangles work and their relationships. It is also used in real-world applications such as surveying, architecture, and astronomy.

3. What are the basic trigonometric functions?

The basic trigonometric functions are sine, cosine, and tangent. These functions are used to calculate the ratios of the sides of a right triangle.

4. How do you create a trigonometry tutorial?

To create a trigonometry tutorial, you will need to have a thorough understanding of the subject and be able to explain concepts in a clear and concise manner. It is also helpful to use visual aids and examples to make the tutorial more engaging and easier to follow.

5. How can I improve my trigonometry skills?

To improve your trigonometry skills, you can practice solving various types of problems, use online resources and tutorials, and seek help from a tutor or teacher if needed. It is also important to have a strong foundation in algebra and geometry, as these subjects are closely related to trigonometry.

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