Trigonometry in High School: A teaching proposal through the History of Mathematics

Abstract

The predominance of traditional classes is common in Mathematics, however, it has been
questioned and has been undergoing several changes that we consider positive, such as the use of the History of Mathematics, which is a contemporary trend belonging to Mathematics Education. This
tendency appears as one of the alternatives to the traditional method, being able to compose a
pedagogical practice that becomes useful in Mathematics classes, thus promoting a greater attractiveness
among its audience. Trigonometry is considered a complex subject by many, especially because it is
based only on its analytical and algebraic aspects, even though it has many applicability, so the historical
context can provide a better understanding of this content. In this way, the objective of this work was to help students to better understand the content of Trigonometry, through a more relevant teaching, for
this, we propose classes containing Illustrative Historical Narratives from the elaboration of an own
model, aiming that the classes become more interesting, dynamic and contextualized. The research was
developed in two stages, the first of a more descriptive-exploratory character, research was carried out
through books and academic works, seeking to cover the theoretical aspects of the themes involved in
this study; the second stage was based on applied research, where a teaching proposal was presented.
For all these reasons, we hope that the proposed objectives regarding the teaching and learning process
in Trigonometry classes can be achieved.