As it is stated, the Pythagorean formula is a2 + b2 = c2, where c is the length of the hypotenuse(longest side) and a and b are the lengths of the shorter sides.
Here are some examples of ways that you can use this in every day life.
1 - Tyson and Carsen are playing baseball. They want to know how far it is to throw the ball from second base to home plate. The distance in between each base is 90 feet. Remember that the base paths form a right angle at the bases. We have two right triangles in the infield. Figure out the distance from second base to home using the Pythagorean formula.
2 - Logan is washing windows at the doctors office and needs a ladder to reach the window on the second floor. If he has to set the ladder out 10 feet from the building (to avoid messing up the flowers) and the window is 20 feet high, how long must the ladder be? Remember that the lawn and the building form a right angle.
See if you can find more examples of the Pythagorean theorem in your life? Find these examples and more at http://middle-school-curriculum.suite101.com/article.cfm/the_pythagorean_theorem
Ron I really like how you put in real life events and situations so studetns can understand how Math can apply to them in their everyday life. Although I am not a huge Mathmatician I found that you used simple and direct steps to help students understand how to figure out the problem.
ReplyDeleteMath is math and always will be, with that said I like how you've put this together to draw the students attention.
ReplyDeleteVisuals are good for students!
ReplyDelete