Geometry Research ProjectThe Pythagorean Theorem Mr.

Yates
a2 + b2 = c2

The Pythagorean Theorem has been proven countless times in the past. Your
assignment is to research one of these proofs. Most of these proofs can be
explained using simple algebra, geometry, and visual aids.

We learned that the sum of the areas of the two squares on the legs (a and b) of a
right triangle equals the area of the square on the hypotenuse (c). There are many
different ways to prove this geometric fact.

I expect a written report that is no longer than one page. It may have up to one
additional page with supporting figures drawn. Please do not be wordy. Your
report must include the follow parts:
1. Written explanation of proof. Use your own words. Plagiarism will earn
you a zero on this assignment without possibility for re-do, and possibly an F
for the quarter. Please type or print legibly. Use complete sentences. If you
do a two-column proof, add a third column that explains what is going on in
each line.
2. Drawings, pictures, graphs, or charts to show connection to proof.
3. Example: Apply your proof, sentence by sentence, or line by line, to a 5cm-
12cm-13cm right triangle.
4. Short bibliography to identify your resource(s).

You may use the library, the internet, and other textbooks as resources. You may
even ask other math teachers to help steer you in the right direction (but please
don’t pester them, this is your assignment). This research assignment is worth two
project grades, as we will have two class periods to complete it (as well as time
spent at home). I will award 20% bonus points to the most original proof in each
class. Your assignment is due no later than Monday, April 28th, 2008 at the end
of class. Late assignments will be 5% off per day late, up to 10% off.

How to write your bibliography:

Author. Title of Book. City Published: Publisher, Copyright Year, Page numbers.

Yates, N. The Wonderful Theorem of Pythagoras. Baltimore, MD:

Patterson Books, 2006, p.345.

Author. “Section Title.” Title of Web Page. Web address. Accessed date.

Yates, N. “Pythagorean Proof #51213.” Proofs of Pythagoras.

http://www.doesnotexist.edu . Accessed 22 April 2008.
 Rubric:

4pts Written explanation of proof. Clear explanation that is no longer than

one page.
Use your own words, typed or printed legibly; use complete
sentences.
2pts Drawings, pictures, graphs, or charts to show connection to proof.
3pts Example: Apply your proof, line by line, to a 5cm-12cm-13cm right
triangle.
1pt Short bibliography to identify your resource(s).