The unit of study is on the Pythagorean Theorem. Students will go into depth about not only the formula for the Pythagorean Theorem, but the history and multiple proofs of it. Students will gain an understanding of mathematics from a history perspective by exploring how math was used thousands of years ago to help survey land and build large structures. Students will also take a look at the many different proofs of the theorem, in particular, one created by one of our past presidents, President Garfield. Also, students will learn about the many uses of the Pythagorean Theorem presently.
Of course, it will be important for students to be able to use the algebra of the Pythagorean Theorem to solve for unknown sides of a right triangle, but rather than give a formula and ask students to use it, they will relate it to real life situations to gain an understanding of why it is important to know and understand. |
