The Unit Circle & Periodic Functions (Geogebra)

This is a Geogebra program for teaching students the Unit Circle. The program has been designed using Geogebra 5.0 (install version). This is a valuable resource when teaching trigonometry, quadrants, radians, exact ratio values, the Pythagorean identity and graphs of Sine, Cosine and Tangent. I have even included an animation of the sun rotating east to west to explain the historical reason why we rotate counter-clockwise around the unit circle for positive angles of rotation. However, you can also demonstrate negative rotation angles.

The program will show students how frequency and phase connect back to the unit circle and allows you to quickly enter specific angles of rotation for use when teaching students exact ratios. It even highlights the relevant sides of the triangle for you. The program will draw the Sine, Cosine and Tangent graphs as the point rotates around the unit circle, which allows students to see the graphs forming, creating a more engaging experience for them.

This is a visual teaching tool that will help students to better comprehend the concepts behind trigonometric ratios and their connection to the unit circle. There are many hours invested in creating this program. It has made my job as a teacher easier and I hope it does for you too. Enjoy.