Pythagorean Theorem Differentiated Instruction for Use in an ...

Name: ___________________________________
Activity: Ancient Egyptian Surveying
The Nile River flooded annually destroying property boundaries in ancient Egypt. The
ancient Egyptians used the Pythagorean Theorem to make a land surveying tool which
they used to reestablish boundaries.
1. Use a pen or marker to divide your string into 12 equal segments. Tape the ends of
the string together to form a loop.
2. Try to form a right triangle with the side lengths that are whole numbers.
If you are having difficulty, ask someone to help you hold your string. Use the
corner of a sheet of paper to measure your angle.
What are the side lengths of the triangle you formed?
Do these side lengths reflect the Pythagorean Theorem?
Demonstrate your answer.
Do you think a 6, 8, 10 triangle is a right triangle?
Explain your answer.
Check your answer using the Pythagorean Theorem.
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