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PROTRACTOR

Protractor

Definition Of Protractor

Protractor is a tool used to measure the angles.

More About Protractor

Some of the protractors are half circle protractors to measure angles up to 180° and some of them are full circle protractors to measure angles up to 360°.

Video Examples: How to use a protractor

Example of Protractor

 example of  Protractor

Solved Example on Protractor

Ques: Find the measure of ∠XYZ.

 example of  Protractor

Choices:

A. 105°
B. 75°
C. 180°
D. 130°
Correct Answer: A

Solution:

Step 1: ∠XYZ is made up of two rays, YX and YZ, with the common endpoint Y.
Step 2: ∠XYZ is the measure between YX and YZ.
Step 3: On the protractor scale, YX is passing through 180° and YZ is passing through 75°.
Step 4: Difference = 180° - 75° = 105°
Step 5: The measure of ∠XYZ is 105°.

Quick Summary

  • A protractor measures angles.
  • Protractors can be half-circle (180°) or full-circle (360°).
  • Angles are measured in degrees.
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⚠️ Common Mistakes

  • Reading the wrong scale on the protractor (inner vs. outer).
  • Not aligning the protractor's base line with one of the angle's rays.
  • Incorrectly subtracting to find the angle measure.

🌍 Real-World Uses

  • Navigation: Used by sailors and pilots to plot courses on nautical charts.
  • Construction: Used to measure and mark angles for building structures like roofs and walls.
  • Drafting and Design: Architects and engineers use protractors to create accurate blueprints and technical drawings.

📋 Standards Alignment

  • CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.MD.C.6
  • CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.7.G.A.2

🔗 Related Links

🍎 Teacher Insights

Emphasize the importance of accurate alignment. Use real-world examples of angles. Provide ample practice opportunities.

🎓 Prerequisites

  • Basic arithmetic
  • Understanding of angles (acute, obtuse, right)

Check Your Knowledge

Q1: What is the measure of angle XYZ if ray YX is at 180° and ray YZ is at 75°?

Q2: A protractor is used to measure what?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the unit of measurement for angles using a protractor?
A: Degrees (°).

Q: How do I align the protractor to measure an angle?
A: Place the protractor's center point on the angle's vertex and align the base line (0° line) with one of the angle's rays.

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