They may also develop algebraic techniques to help them find measures, as, for example, when they develop a formula for finding the distance between two points in the coordinate plane. High school students also use measurement frequently in connection with other subject areas. Science experiments require a precise use of measurement. The cumulative progress indicators for grade 12 appear below in boldface type. Use techniques of algebra, geometry, and trigonometry to measure quantities indirectly.
Students use coordinate geometry techniques to determine the distance between two points.
Students use similar figures and proportions to measure the height of a tree or a flagpole. Students use the Pythagorean Theorem to determine how long a ladder is needed to climb a wall, including a determination of a safe angle at which to place the ladder. Students use right-triangle trigonometry to measure the width of a canyon or the height of a waterfall. Students work through the Ice Cones lesson that is described in the First Four Standards of this Framework . They use the formula for the volume of a cone and a graphing calculator to determine the maximum volume of a cone made from a paper circle of radius 10 cm which is cut along a radius.