The Pythagorean Theorem
Free to teach as-is — the teacher guide, student handout, and slides are included.
Free — we'll email you an access link. Google Docs format.
Objective
I can use the Pythagorean theorem to find missing side lengths of right triangles.
Part 1 of 4
Warm-up video
Math with Mr. J · 7:36Vetted channel
We don't generate video — this one is by Math with Mr. J on YouTube. The practice questions and exit ticket below were drafted by AI for this objective, and every question is editable in the teacher guide.
Part 2 of 4
Key concepts
3 concepts
- 1
The Pythagorean theorem uses the formula a² + b² = c², where 'c' represents the hypotenuse and 'a' and 'b' represent the legs of a right triangle.
- 2
We can use the Pythagorean theorem to find the length of a missing leg of a right triangle when the lengths of the other two sides are known.
- 3
To solve for a missing leg, you must first square the known values, then isolate the squared variable, and finally take the square root of both sides.
Part 3 of 4
Practice
6 questions
What is the primary purpose of the Pythagorean theorem, and what specific type of triangle does it apply to?
In the Pythagorean theorem formula, a squared plus b squared equals c squared (a^2 + b^2 = c^2), what do the variables 'a' and 'b' represent, and what does the variable 'c' represent?
Part 4 of 4
Exit ticket
Quick comprehension check
“A right triangle has one leg that measures 8 inches and a hypotenuse that measures 10 inches. Use the Pythagorean theorem to find the length of the missing leg. Show all steps.”
Sample answer included in the free materials
Get the materials
Teacher guide, student handout, and slides — free, in Google Docs format
Teacher Guide
Complete lesson plan with answer keys and alternate activities
Student Handout
Printable worksheet
Slides
Ready to present
We'll ask for your email to send your access link — nothing else.
Teaching a group at a different level?
Where are your students right now? We'll rebuild this lesson to match — including the teacher guide, student handout, and slides, saved to your Google Drive.
Adapt This Lesson