Trigonometric Ratios and Right Triangles

Start with the sides

Begin with the Trigonometry Basics flashcards to go over the hypotenuse, opposite and adjacent sides of a right triangle. Then look at the Sin Cos Tan mind map, which brings the side names and ratios together. The Trigonometry mind map also covers labeling sides, the ratios and finding angles, as well as the unit circle.

As you study, pay attention to the angle being used when identifying the opposite and adjacent sides. The Sin Cos Tan quiz includes a question about where the adjacent side is and another about the opposite-to-hypotenuse ratio.

Connect the ratios

The Sin Cos Tan mind map sets out SOH, CAH and TOA alongside the side ratios. Use it with the SOHCAHTOA flashcards, which ask what the acronym stands for and about the sine, cosine and tangent equivalents. The flashcards also include a question about the ratios for a triangle.

For a worked angle example, look at the SOH CAH TOA note. It identifies the adjacent side and hypotenuse before finding an angle. The Trig ratios test flashcards cover sine, cosine and tangent values for specific angles.

Use a map and quiz together

After studying the side names and ratios, try the Sin Cos Tan quiz. Return to the mind map of the same name when you want to check how the side ratios are organized. You can also use the listed Solve the Right Triangle with Trig quiz for further practice.

Teachers can use the maps, flashcards and quizzes as ready-made material for working through the topic with school students.

Explore the unit

This topic is part of the Trigonometry unit in Mathematics. Its resources let you move between side labels, ratios and questions about right triangles while staying within that unit. Choose a resource and work through it at your own pace.