Introduction
A man back in about 500 BC proved mathematically that there is a relationship here, and that it is true for all right triangles. This was roughly 800 yeards before Algebra was established. This guy was a Greek Philosopher Pythagoras of Samos. Ever since, his name has been associated with this theorem. What this theorem states is that the sum of the squares of the two legs of a right triangle is equal to the square of the hypotenuse.
Task
Questions for students:
- What is the purpose of the pythagorean theorem?
- How can I use the Pythagorean Theorem to find the missing length of a right triangle?
- How does the length of the hypotenuse compare to the length of a leg?
- Where might we use the Pythagorean Theorem in the real world?
Next students will invent a real life situations where Pythagorean Theorem is used. Students can draw or design this real life situation.
Process
Students will break up in teams of 3 to complete the questions and invent, draw or design a real life problem where Pythagorean Theorem is used.
After about 15-20 minutes, students will present their real life problem to the classroom.
Evaluation
Students will be graded on neatness, creativity, and participation.
Conclusion
By the end of the lesson, students will be able to explain proof of the Pythagorean theorem and its converse.
Students will also be able to apply the Pythagorean Theorem to determine unkown side lengths in right triangles in real-world and mathematical problems.