
Right Triangles and the Pythagorean Theorem
9th Grade · Math · 45 min
Lesson Preview
Learning Objective
I can use the Pythagorean theorem to find the missing side length of a right triangle.
- 1
The acronym SOH CAH TOA is a helpful way to remember the trigonometric ratios: Sine = Opposite/Hypotenuse, Cosine = Adjacent/Hypotenuse, Tangent = Opposite/Adjacent.
- 2
To find a missing side of a right triangle using trigonometry, first identify the angle and the two sides you are given, then choose the appropriate trigonometric function.
- 3
If the variable is in the denominator, you must multiply both sides by the variable before isolating it; if the variable is in the numerator, you must multiply both sides by the denominator to isolate the variable.


