High School Resource

Definition of a Locus by Math Open Reference

This resource illustrates the concept of locus. The page shows a model of the plane populated with a large number of points on a grid. Those points equidistant from a point are highlighted forming a circle. The user can drag the point and drag the distance, showing the circle moving and changing size.

There is a description of the locus concept and links to other loci – a straight line and an ellipse.

The page can be enlarged to full screen size for use with a classroom projector. After use in the classroom, students can access it again from any web browser at home or in the library with no login required.

Related NY State Academic Standards: MST3.C.MM4.MA.D, MST3.G.G.22, and MST3.G.G.23!

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