Pythagorean Right Triangles (10-12 through 10-18)

We continued our exploration of squares by introducing the greatest theorem in the history of mathematics -- the Pythagorean Theorem: the sum of the squares of the legs of a right triangle will equal the square of the hypotenuse.  We used our 3x3 and 4x4 and 5x5 square of tennis balls to show the most simple Pythagorean triple, a 3-4-5 triangle. 

With the younger set (1st and 2nd grade) we simply explored the vocabulary of triangles and had them draw several right triangles with the squares of each leg.  Work with your children this week to draw accurate right triangles and with a ruler, squares off of each leg and the hypotenuse.  The most colorful and accurate will earn Mathlete Dollars.

With some 2nd through 5th grade we had them take each pair of legs of a right triangle and using a three step method, they could find the hypotenuse.

The attached pdf will take you through the process.  Also, see if the children can find a pattern in square numbers or in the Pythagorean Triples on their sheet.  Some of the 4th and 5th graders started to explore right triangles that were not triples such as a leg of 2 and 3 which has a hypotenuse of the square root of 13.

Find their level of comfort and have them practice this week.