KS3 Phythagoras (Years 7-9)

A collection of resources to be used when introducing Pythagoras at Key stage 3.

Lesson 1: Show video of the water experiment, asking pupils to write down what they notice. You could provide key words the second time around in order for them to improve their descriptions.

Depending on the class, you can use the square number patterns resource within "Number Activities for Students Aged 9-11" to remind them of square numbers before moving onto Pythagoras' Theorem, however you may wish to skip this depending on the class. Next, have pupils draw any right angled triangle in their books with squares on each side, measuring the lengths and areas appropriately, writing down what they notice underneath. Take ideas from class arriving at the theorem, then give pupils questions from page 62-65 of the PDF "Beta Mathematics 6" to allow pupils to practice using the theorem.

Lesson 2: Refresh previous lesson's learning about the theorem. Assign different groups of pupils (approximately 3 pupils in each group) to different proofs of pythagoras. Using the various Java Apps, allow them to explore how their proof works and then provide resources (paper, scissors, pens etc). You can then mix the groups up and they can teach the proof to each other.

Lesson 3 (or homework task):  Use "Pythagoras' Theorem", the 10 questions flash resource. Pupils set themselves a target based on understanding from previous few lessons, and they are to attempt to meet or exceed this target. In order to assist them in answering these questions they are allowed to use computers (by searching for relevant key words) or the teacher provides "Unit 3 Pythagoras' Theorem" pages to help them work through questions. It is up to the teacher to decide how much of this resource to provide, or in what format.