Cheese-it Pythagorean Theorem

Grade Level(s): 8^th Grade

Content Area:                                                                        Process Area:

Numbers and Operations                                           Problem-Solving

Algebra                                                           Reasoning and Proof

Geometry                                                                    Communication

Measurement                                                             Representation

Data Analysis, Statistics, and Probability                    Connections

Common Core Standards:

CCSS.Math.Content.8.G.B.6 Explain a proof of the Pythagorean Theorem and its converse

CCSS.Math.Content.8.G.B.7 Apply the Pythagorean Theorem to determine unknown side lengths in right triangles in real-world and mathematical problems in two and three dimensions

Targeted Needs of Student:

Understanding mathematical formulas through hands on activities, practicing the Pythagorean Theorem, working with non-standard units in math

Goal:

Understanding how the Pythagorean Theorem is used

Materials Needed:

1.      Cheese-its

2.      Napkins to place on desks

Explanation/Summary:

Students will use the snack Cheese-its to create the length of each side of a right triangle. This will represent the sides of this triangle squared. Then by counting all of the Cheese-its, students will be able to see that the two smaller sides of the right triangle is equal to the hypotenuse squared.

Resource:

www.ww2.valdosta.edu