Imaginary numbers? What do you mean imaginary?

A computer lab introduction to imaginary numbers and how they are represented in algebraic functions. Using this activity, students will learn to simplify expressions that require determining square roots of negative numbers. This activity introduces the imaginary number i, which combined with real numbers comprise the complex number system.

Standards & Objectives

Learning objectives: 
  • Students will learn to simplify expressions that require determining square roots of negative numbers.

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Understanding

Helpful Hints

  • Teacher may elect to provide paper copies of the Introduction to Complex Numbers Activity Sheet (attached) used in EXPLAIN.

References

Contributors: