This applet is a sub-site of the Math Applets for Calculus at SLU site. It provides the user with an interactive graphical interface through which he can create different hyperbolas and ellipsis. The shapes and types of conics are changed by manually changing crucial parameters (i.e., focal distance, axis, etc.)
Type of Material:
Simulation and demonstration.
Recommended Uses:
Useful for classroom demonstration.
Technical Requirements:
Java-enabled browser.
Identify Major Learning Goals:
This site provides students and teachers with a computer-based activity that helps in better understanding of hyperbolas and ellipses.
Target Student Population:
Students studying Analytic Geometry or Calculus.
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
Basic introduction to conics.
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
The applet is designed to produce an accurate graph of an ellipse or hyperbola, and it does this well. The user has manual (click-and-drag) control of the center of a conic, focal length, and axis length. All the important elements (including asymptotes in the case of hyperbolas) are conveniently labeled on the plot.
Concerns:
The first sentence of the applet description mentions parabolas while, in fact, the applet works only with ellipses and hyperbolas. Another minor problem is that some of the length, distance, and point labels on the graph can be moved by the user, and once moved they are no longer useful.
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
Well designed with large graphs and easily changed parameters, this applet will make an excellent tool for classroom demonstrations.
Concerns:
None.
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
The applet loads quickly and is extremely easy to use.
Concerns:
None.
Creative Commons:
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