Course Overview

Description and Scope

This course provides a comprehensive study of trigonometric functions and their applications, including the solution of right and oblique triangles, trigonometric identities and equations, inverse trigonometric functions, graphs of trigonometric functions, vectors, and polar coordinates. The course is designed for students who have completed college-level algebra and are prepared for advanced mathematical concepts.

• Credit Hours: 3

• Prerequisites: College-level readiness in reading, writing, and math; completion of MATH 1314 or placement by testing.

• Required Text: Trigonometry, 12th ed. by Lial, et al. (ISBN 9780135924136)

• Technology: Scientific calculator required

Student Learning Outcomes

Core Competencies

• Trigonometric Functions: Compute values for key angles in all quadrants using both degrees and radians.

• Inverse Functions: Evaluate the six basic inverse trigonometric functions.

• Graphing: Graph trigonometric functions and their transformations.

• Identities: Prove and apply trigonometric identities.

• Equations: Solve trigonometric equations.

• Triangles: Solve right and oblique triangles using appropriate laws.

• Applications: Apply trigonometric concepts to real-world problems.

• Vectors: Perform operations with vectors.

• Complex Numbers: Represent complex numbers in trigonometric (polar) form.

Course Structure and Assessment

Grading Components

• Homework: 15% (submitted via MyMathLab; late work accepted with penalty)

• Three In-Person Tests: 60% (average of three equally weighted exams; lowest test grade may be replaced by final exam score if higher)

• Comprehensive Final Exam: 25% (in-person, covers all course material)

Letter Grade Scale

Major Topics and Weekly Schedule

Course Content Outline

• Ch. 1: Angles, Trigonometric Functions, Definitions

• Ch. 2: Trigonometric Functions of Acute and Non-Acute Angles, Approximations, Applications of Right Triangles

• Ch. 3: Radian Measure, Applications, The Unit Circle, Linear and Angular Speed

• Ch. 4: Graphs of Sine, Cosine, Tangent, Cotangent, Secant, and Cosecant Functions; Translations

• Ch. 5: Fundamental Identities, Verifying Identities, Sum and Difference, Double-Angle, and Half-Angle Identities

• Ch. 6: Inverse Circular Functions, Trigonometric Equations

• Ch. 7: Oblique Triangles, Law of Sines and Cosines, Vectors (Geometric and Algebraic), Dot Product

• Ch. 8: Complex Numbers, Trigonometric (Polar) Form, Product and Quotient Theorems, De Moivre’s Theorem, Polar Equations, Parametric Equations

Sample Weekly Schedule

Course Policies and Support

Attendance and Communication

• Attendance: Required for comprehension; taken daily.

• Communication: Use official college email for all correspondence.

• Late Work: Accepted with a 10% penalty per day.

• Make-up Exams: Not permitted; lowest test grade may be replaced by final exam score if higher.

• Electronic Devices: Allowed if not disruptive.

Academic Integrity and College Policies

• Academic Integrity: Honesty is expected; violations may result in disciplinary action.

• Withdrawal: Students are responsible for withdrawing before the posted deadline to avoid a failing grade.

• FERPA: Student records are protected by federal law.

• Title IX: Protection from discrimination and harassment.

• Disability Services: Accommodations available through the Disability Services Office.

Student Support Services

• Academic advising, counseling, tutoring, and technology support are available to all students.

• Additional resources include career services, student life, and transfer services.

Required Materials and Technology

• Textbook: Trigonometry, 12th ed. by Lial, et al.

• Calculator: Scientific calculator required for coursework and exams.

• Online Platform: MyMathLab for homework and assignments.

Important Dates

• Course Start: January 20, 2026

• Course End: May 17, 2026

• Final Exam: May 13, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:50 PM

Visual Reference