Evaluating Trigonometric Functions Using the Reference Angle


In these lessons we will look at Evaluating Trigonometric Functions Using the Reference Angle.




Share this page to Google Classroom

Related Pages
Trigonometric Functions
Trigonometric Graphs
Trigonometric Identities
More Lessons for Trigonometry
Math Worksheets

The following figures give examples of the standard angle and the reference angle for the different quadrants. Scroll down the page for more examples and solutions.

Reference Angle

What is The Reference Angle Theorem?
The Reference Angle Theorem states that
To find the value of a trigonometric function of any angle t:

  1. Determine the function value for the associated reference angle t'.
  2. Depending on the quadrant in which t lies, the answer will be either be + or -.

How to evaluate trig functions using reference angles?

  1. Find the reference angle for the given angle.
  2. Rewrite the original trig function with the reference angle.
  3. Affix the appropriate sign to the trig function (+ or -), depending which quadrant the angle terminates in.
  4. Evaluate the trig function.

Evaluating Trigonometric Functions Using Reference Angles




Evaluating Trigonometric Functions Using the Reference Angle, Example 1
A quick review of the unit circle in quadrant 1 and discuss how to use the reference angle to evaluate some trig functions

Evaluating Trigonometric Functions Using the Reference Angle, Example 2
Discuss how to use the reference angle to evaluate some more trig functions.

Evaluating Trig functions using reference angles



Check out our most popular games!
Fraction Concoction Game
Fraction Concoction
Fact Family Game
Fact Family Game
Number Bond Garden Game
Number Bond
Garden
Online Addition Subtraction Game
Online Addition
Subtraction Game
Penguin Solitaire Game
Penguin Solitaire
Sawayama Solitaire Game
Sawayama
Solitaire
Ark Solitaire Game
Ark Solitaire
Eldritch Invasion Solitaire
Eldritch Invasion
Shenzhen Solitaire Game
Shenzhen
Solitaire

Check out more Solitaire games here.



We welcome your feedback, comments and questions about this site or page. Please submit your feedback or enquiries via our Feedback page.