In Search of Pythagoras

Learning Resource Type

Learning Activity

Subject Area

Mathematics

Grade(s)

8

Overview

Students will discover how the Pythagorean Theorem describes the relationship between the lengths of the sides of a right triangle. By using this digital tool, students will understand the visual and algebraic proofs of the Pythagorean Theorem. Students will apply the Pythagorean Theorem to find missing lengths and to calculate distances between points on the coordinate plane.

This activity results from the ALEX Resource GAP Project.

Phase

After/Explain/Elaborate
Mathematics (2019) Grade(s): 8

MA19.8.28

Apply the Pythagorean Theorem to determine unknown side lengths of right triangles, including real-world applications.

UP:MA19.8.28

Vocabulary

  • Pythagorean Theorem

Knowledge

Students know:
  • The Pythagorean Theorem.
  • Appropriate labeling of a right triangle,leg and hypotenuse.

Skills

Students are able to:
  • Solve equations involving one variable and square root.
  • Represent real-world and mathematical contexts involving right triangles in a variety of formats(drawings, equations).
  • Justify solutions and solution paths using conceptual understandings and vocabulary related to the Pythagorean Theorem (right angle, hypotenuse).

Understanding

Students understand that:
  • the properties of right triangles can be used to solve problems.

Learning Objectives

The student will apply the Pythagorean Theorem to real-world problems using the digital tool, Braining Camp.

Activity Details

This learning activity is best used after teaching a lesson on Pythagorean Theorem.

The teacher will visit the website Braining Camp and demonstrate to the students how to access the problems.  This tool can be used for differentiated instruction and to check for understanding of Pythagorean Theorem. 

Place the students into groups of 3 and assign one of the activities (lesson, manipulatives, questions, problems, challenge) from the website. 

The students should write their problems and answers from each activity on paper to submit to the teacher at the end of class. This will be used as their exit slip.

 

Assessment Strategies

The students will be assessed on successful completion of problems from each activity on exit slip.

Background / Preparation

The teacher will need an internet-connected computer and an interactive whiteboard. The teacher will need to be familiar with the website. The teacher will need to work the different activities so that he/she will be able to assign the correct activity for the students. The students will need internet connected devices (one per group). 

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