Pythagoras - Pythagorean triples

A complete lesson, or range of activities to use, on the theme of Pythagorean triples. A great lesson for adding some interest, depth and challenge to the topic of Pythagoras’ theorem.

Activities included:

Starter:
A set of straight forward questions on finding the third side given two sides in a right-angled triangle, to remind pupils of Pythagoras’ theorem.

Main:

• Slides explaining that Pythagoras’ theorem can be used to test whether a triangle has a right angle.
• A sorting activity where pupils test whether given triangles contain a right angle.
• Quick explanation of Pythagorean triples, followed by a structured worksheet for pupils to try using Diophantus’ method to generate Pythagorean triples, and, as an extension, prove why the method works.
• Two pairs of challenging puzzles about Pythagorean triples.

Plenary:
A final question, not too difficult, to bring together the theme of the lesson (see cover image).

Printable worksheets and answers included.

Please review if you buy as any feedback is appreciated!