Lesson Note: Angles (JSS2)
Topic: Angles
i. Definition of Angles
An angle is formed when two straight lines meet or intersect at a common point, called the
vertex. The amount of rotation or separation between the two lines is called the angle.
The measure of an angle is typically expressed in degrees (°). The symbol for an angle is "∠".
Vertex: The common point where the two lines meet.
Arms: The two straight lines that form the angle.
For example:
∠ABC represents an angle where the vertex is B, and the arms are BA and BC.
ii. Types of Angles
Angles are classified based on their measure in degrees. The main types of angles are:
1. Acute Angle:
o Example: ∠ABC = 45°
o An acute angle is an angle that is less than 90° but greater than 0°.
2. Right Angle:
o A right angle is exactly 90°. It is formed when two lines are perpendicular to each
o Example: ∠ABC = 90°
other.
3. Obtuse Angle:
o Example: ∠ABC = 120°
o An obtuse angle is an angle that is greater than 90° but less than 180°.
4. Straight Angle:
o A straight angle is exactly 180°, and it is formed by two opposite rays (a straight
o Example: ∠ABC = 180°
line).
5. Reflex Angle:
o Example: ∠ABC = 270°
o A reflex angle is an angle that is greater than 180° but less than 360°.
6. Full Angle:
o Example: ∠ABC = 360°
o A full angle is exactly 360°. It represents a complete rotation.
iii. Construction of Angles (90°, 45°, 60°, 30°, 15°)
In geometry, we often need to construct angles with specific measurements. Here’s how to
construct the commonly used angles:
1. Construction of 90° Angle (Right Angle)
Materials needed:
Ruler
Protractor
Set square (optional)
Steps:
1. Draw a straight line using a ruler (this will be one arm of the angle).
2. Place the protractor such that its midpoint is on the point where you want the angle to be
(vertex).
3. Mark 90° on the protractor.
4. Draw a line from the vertex to the point marked at 90°. This is the second arm of the
angle.
Result: You have constructed a 90° right angle.
2. Construction of 45° Angle
Materials needed:
Ruler
Protractor
Steps:
1. Draw a straight line using a ruler (this will be one arm of the angle).
2. Place the protractor at the vertex of the angle.
3. Mark 45° on the protractor.
4. Draw a line from the vertex through the 45° mark.
Result: You have constructed a 45° angle.
3. Construction of 60° Angle
Materials needed:
Ruler
Protractor
Steps:
1. Draw a straight line using a ruler (this will be one arm of the angle).
2. Place the protractor at the vertex of the angle.
3. Mark 60° on the protractor.
4. Draw a line from the vertex through the 60° mark.
Result: You have constructed a 60° angle.
4. Construction of 30° Angle
Materials needed:
Ruler
Protractor
Steps:
1. Draw a straight line using a ruler (this will be one arm of the angle).
2. Place the protractor at the vertex of the angle.
3. Mark 30° on the protractor.
4. Draw a line from the vertex through the 30° mark.
Result: You have constructed a 30° angle.
5. Construction of 15° Angle
Materials needed:
Ruler
Protractor
Steps:
1. Draw a straight line using a ruler (this will be one arm of the angle).
2. Place the protractor at the vertex of the angle.
3. Mark 15° on the protractor.
4. Draw a line from the vertex through the 15° mark.
Result: You have constructed a 15° angle.
Summary of Construction:
To construct any of the above angles (90°, 45°, 60°, 30°, or 15°):
1. Always start by drawing one straight line (the first arm of the angle).
2. Use a protractor to measure the required angle from the vertex.
3. Draw the second line according to the measured angle.
Practice Activity:
Construct angles of 90°, 45°, 60°, 30°, and 15° using the steps above.
Label each angle correctly, including the vertex and the arms.
Angles are a fundamental concept in geometry. Understanding how to construct various angles
(90°, 45°, 60°, 30°, 15°) is an important skill for solving geometric problems. Practice
constructing different types of angles using a protractor to improve your precision and
confidence in geometry.