higher maths needs trig? (newsflash: trig is boring)?

Trig is not boring, it is limited.

The necessary (but necessary) trig is 4 hours of intense work.

I've so far only done a course on Analysis and Abstract Algebra with some Group Theory and in all of these Trigonometry doesn't take a large part, if any (mainly only in Calculus). I wouldn't call trigonometry boring, you seem to find it hard when you say "I think we could get more math and science majors if we cut trig way down" and if that is the case then maybe that's why your finding it boring. But I don't share your opinion, I think the math curriculum's are fine the way they are; by removing more and more we'll eventually be left with nothing.

Yes, it is used in calculus, and differential equations. It is used in physics also. In fact, whenever there is some sort of periodic motion, trig will be used to help describe it. Furthermore, the skills you gain by thinking through a problem and being able to manipulate identities, etc. are going to be essential for everything from this point on.

Truthfully, if you find trig boring, don't go into math or the sciences.

Trig. is not only "boring", but I think is a major deterent, to some of us completing Grade 12.

Really, how often does an average citizen USE Trig. in their daily functioning?

It's TOTALLY USELESS, unless you want to be a rocket scientist. Make graduating in Grade 12 math more dependent upon DAILIY use of math in getting by, not something of limited use to most of us.

I agree with mathman. Trig is REALLY important. It is really handy when doing trig substitutions in Calc II, and doing things in Calc III like parametric forms. It will really help in any math class you want to take, especially the identities.

Trig is extremely important in calculus. When you get into calculus, you see why all those trig identities are so important.

trig is useless, calculus is useless, linear algebra is useless, differential equations is useless, abstract algebra is useless, real analysis is useless.... everything...