Lesson Plan

Equations for Tangent Lines to Circles

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Don't go off on a tangent while writing equations of tangent lines! Scholars determine the equations for tangent lines to circles. They attempt both concrete and abstract examples, such as a tangent line to the unit circle through (p, 0).

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CCSS: Designed
Additional Tags
Instructional Ideas
  • Have pupils attempt the exercise problems in pairs
Classroom Considerations
  • Learners must be proficient with equations of circles, which are covered in the previous two lessons
  • Lesson builds on previous knowledge of tangent lines from the module
Pros
  • Learners discover equations of tangent lines through guided questions and discussions
  • Teacher resource includes solutions to discussion questions, problem set, and exercises
  • Lesson plan includes indications of where to look for evidence of mathematical practices
Cons
  • Abstract nature of questions unlikely to hold interest
Common Core