PRECALCULUS 3rd QUARTER PROJECT DUE: March 31st, 2009

Graphics, in both computer games and movies, are usually done in the polar co-ordinate system. It’s a
system that makes perspective drawing much easier. This project will give you a brief introduction to
what the polar system is while allowing you to create really neat images.
• First, with your calculator go to [MODE] and (4th line down) select “Pol” to change your
calculator into polar mode. Then select the [Y=] button. Notice how instead of “Y1=” it’s “r1=”?
Enter the equation “r1=5” and look at the graph. What did you get?
• Next, change your window settings…
o θ min = 0 θ max = 2π θ step = π /6
o Xmin = -1 Xmax = 1
o Ymin = -1 Ymax = 1
• Polar graphs LOVE trig functions! Because of the way polar graphs work, trig functions give the
coolest pictures. To see what I mean, try entering the following one at a time…
o tan(θ ) The theta button is to the right of [ALPHA](with the x button)
o sin(2 θ )
o cos(0.5 θ )
o 4 cos (4 θ )

WHAT YOU WILL DO FOR THIS PROJECT:

1) You have a chance of becoming the Supreme Ruler of the South Pole! Yes, the penguins have
decided to choose a ruler! How? By choosing the person who can design the best flag – in polar
co-ordinates (of course!). So you are going to design a flag for in the polar co-ordinate system
using at least 3 polar equations (trig equations). Using your calculator, you will experiment on
your own with different equations until you get a picture you like.
2) Now MAKE your flag. You may use cloth, construction paper, whatever.
3) What makes trig functions look so cool in polar mode, anyway? That’s what you’re going to
write about. In 5-paragraph essay format, explain how polar curves work. You don’t have to
figure this out all alone – you may research the information – as long as you include a list of
references with your essay. I expect your essay to address the following topics:
a. What is the polar co-ordinate system?
b. What do r and θ represent?
c. How would you draw the curves in your flag by hand? (make sure you include the 3
curves you used!)
d. What careers use polar co-ordinates in their work? (Give examples)

HOW I WILL GRADE THIS:

The essay is 60% of your grade.
• 10% = essay is well written (5%) AND TYPED (5%)
• 40% = you addressed the four topics well
• 10% = references are listed (bibliography)
The flag itself is 40% of your grade.
• 20% for using at least 3 equations
• 20% for the flag itself
i. Does it match the 3 curves in your essay well?
ii. Was it carefully constructed?
Remember: This is a test grade. You will lose 5 points each day it is late!

BONUS: After you hand in your projects, I will have my other classes vote on them. The inner of each
category will earn 10 extra points on this project grade!
PRECALCULUS 3rd QUARTER PROJECT DUE: March 31st, 2009

Category 1: The Prettiest Flag

Category 2: The Most Interesting Flag.
(You may win in only one category.)