The Pythagorean Theorem: Can You Picture It? by St. Lawrence-Lewis BOCES
Intermediate, 7th Grade
The students will be assessed according to the New York State Standards in Mathematics that are listed below using a four to one rubric scale.
Learning Context/ Introduction
The students will first be introduced to the Pythagorean Theorem through a PowerPoint presentation including a short video on the history of Pythagoras and a virtual explanation of his theorem.
The students will then discover the importance of the Pythagorean Theorem through the eyes of a digital camera. They will take pictures of situations where the theorem could be used and using a computer they will manipulate their photo to create a visual representation of the theorem at work. They will then use the Pythagorean Theorem to solve the problem they have chosen to represent in their photo. Each student will explain their problem and their solution to the class.
This learning experience should take anywhere from three to five days. Each class period is 40 minutes long.