MathSamurai: Trigonometry - Functions, Vectors, Complex Numbers, and More
What's included
9 live meetings
8 hrs 15 mins in-class hoursHomework
1-2 hours per week. Weekly problem sets will be assigned from the OpenStax textbook designed to reinforce concepts introduced during class. Extra credit problems will also be offered through Khan Academy. A mix of real-world application problems, practice exercises, and extension challenges for advanced learners.Assessment
The mid-course assessment will be a Google Form quiz designed to evaluate learners’ understanding of the foundational concepts covered in the first five sessions. This quiz will consist of multiple-choice and short-answer questions focusing on trigonometric functions, identities, and solving equations. Learners will apply their knowledge to demonstrate their proficiency and identify areas that may need further review. A retake of this assessment may be requested if desired. The end-course assessment will serve as a comprehensive evaluation of all topics covered throughout the course. This Google Form quiz will include a mix of question types, such as multiple-choice, true/false, and problem-solving scenarios that require learners to apply trigonometric functions, vectors, and complex numbers in real-world contexts. The assessment aims to gauge learners’ overall mastery and provide feedback on their readiness for future mathematical challenges. No retakes will be offered for the final.Letter Grade
Available upon request, based on accuracy and effort in assignments.Certificate of Completion
Certificate of Completion: Awarded for attending at least 7 out of 9 sessions, completing all homework, and scoring passing grades on both assessments. Certificate of Excellence: Awarded for excelling in all assignments, demonstrating leadership in class discussions and activities, and making scores of at least 80% on both assessments.Class Experience
US Grade 8 - 11
Intermediate - Advanced Level
This course provides learners with a comprehensive understanding of trigonometry and its applications. Lessons are structured with a balance of lecture, problem-solving, and interactive activities. Each lesson begins with a brief review of the previous lesson, followed by the introduction of new concepts through guided instruction. Learners will practice through example problems, collaborative activities, and guided discussions. The teacher uses a dynamic and engaging teaching style, blending visual aids, interactive examples, and real-life applications to make complex concepts more accessible. Learners will regularly interact with the teacher and classmates during live lessons, engaging in problem-solving exercises and group discussions. Homework assignments between classes allow learners to deepen their understanding, while optional extension challenges encourage advanced exploration.
Learning Goals
Mastery of trigonometric functions and their graphs
Ability to solve complex trigonometric equations
Syllabus
Standards
Aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS)9 Lessons
over 9 WeeksLesson 1:
Introduction to Trigonometric Functions and Unit Circle
Lesson 1 will serve as an introduction to trigonometric functions. Learners will explore the fundamental definitions of sine, cosine, and tangent, and how these functions relate to the unit circle. We'll discuss radian measure and begin to examine the periodicity of these trigonometric functions, laying the foundation for understanding their behavior in various mathematical contexts.
55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Graphing Trigonometric Functions
Lesson 2 will focus on graphing trigonometric functions, where learners will investigate how sine, cosine, and tangent functions are represented graphically. They will learn how to manipulate amplitude, period, and phase shifts, helping them visualize the transformations that occur with changes in function parameters.
55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Inverse Trigonometric Functions
In Lesson 3, learners will be introduced to inverse trigonometric functions. They will understand the concept of inverting sine, cosine, and tangent functions, and apply this knowledge to solve equations that require finding specific angles from given values.
55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Trigonometric Identities
Lesson 4 is dedicated to trigonometric identities. Learners will explore the Pythagorean identities as well as more complex identities like double-angle, half-angle, and sum/difference identities. This lesson emphasizes the utility of identities in simplifying trigonometric expressions and solving complex equations.
55 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Parental approval is required for learners to access the OpenStax Algebra and Trigonometry 2e textbook, which will be used as the primary resource. This textbook is free, but access may require account creation on the platform.
Pre-Requisites
Classes: Algebra I and Geometry
Skills: Algebraic expressions, solving linear and quadratic equations, and understanding basic functions. Familiarity with the Pythagorean theorem, basic coordinate geometry, and angles is also recommended.
Supply List
Students should have access to a notebook or binder (online or otherwise) for notes and practice problems, as well as a reliable computer or tablet with internet access. Access to a printer will also be helpful for printing out worksheets and handouts. It is recommended students use a graphing calculator such as the Texas Instruments TI-84 or the Casio fx-9750GII. However, students can also use online graphing calculators like Desmos. Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE Color Graphing Calculator on Amazon https://amzn.to/3NdM6K5 Please note that the link above is an affiliate link and informs Amazon only that you were recommended to this product here, without incurring additional cost in the case that you decide to purchase it through them.
Teacher expertise and credentials
Colorado Teaching Certificate in Mathematics
Bachelor's Degree from Gustavus Adolphus College
Mr. Kelsey is a professional math, philosophy, logic, and language tutor, writer, and lifelong-learning advocate. He is certified through the Praxis II (5161) exam to teach high school mathematics (pre-algebra through calculus), but his range of subjects has included ACT/SAT test prep, college-level mathematics, science, logic, foreign languages, and philosophy. He holds a BA with Honors in Philosophy (with concentrations in Religious and Japanese Studies).
As of March of 2019, Kelsey has had over 1000 registered tutoring hours on top of 3+ years of experience teaching in the classroom. His extensive work in tutoring middle school, high school, college, and continuing education students (over 1,260 hours), as well as instilling his passion for mathematics, science, language, and philosophy in his students, has earned him a 5.0-star rating (out of about 450 ratings) on Wyzant in addition to his past popularity on Outschool.
This background, coupled with a bent for lifelong learning, has given him a knack for finding and rounding out students' weak spots and boosting their confidence in themselves. I've helped many students find the joy in learning math, language, and philosophy by helping them "crack the code" and dissolve the illusion so often impressed on us that everything about these subjects is difficult, complicated, or even impenetrable. It's not.
Please see his Teacher Bio below for further details.
Reviews
Live Group Course
$32
weekly or $285 for 9 classes1x per week, 9 weeks
55 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 13-17
4-10 learners per class