Mathematics·Geometry·procedural
Trigonometry basics
Use the trigonometric ratios sin, cos, and tan in right-angled triangles to find unknown sides and angles, including setting up the correct ratio for a given problem
Suggested ages 13–15
Evidence of understanding
- Identify which trigonometric ratio to use (SOH CAH TOA) based on the known and unknown sides
- Calculate an unknown side using sin, cos, or tan and a known angle
- Find an unknown angle using the inverse trigonometric function (e.g. tan⁻¹)
Assessment prompt
If Trigonometry basics knows a ladder is 5 metres long and leans against a wall at 70° to the ground, can they use trigonometry to work out how high up the wall it reaches?
Standards alignment
KS3.Maths.Geo.14GB · uk-nc-2013
Pythagoras' Theorem and Trigonometry
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 3