Monday, July 6, 2015

The Pythagorean Theorem: Where I am and Where I want to go

The Pythagorean Theorem

The Pythagorean theorem is probably one of the most well known theorems in mathematics. It is something everyone has learned. Whether it was the area of squares Image result for pythagorean theorem, the distance formula or  a^2 + b^2 = c^2 ,. Its so well known that I've seen people with tattoos of it.  
It has become almost become part of pop culture. 

The theorem has been given numerous proofs – possibly the most for any mathematical theorem. They are very diverse, including both geometric proofs and algebraic proofs, with some dating back thousands of years, (Wikipedia).

<----- (this is so ridiculous, I couldn't help but post it)

I'd like investigate the theorem in pop culture as well as in areas other than mathematics. It can't be only be useful in math if its so well known, right? Also, why is the theorem credited to Pythagoras? It has been said that the idea of the theorem predates him. I'd also like to look into what possible uses the theorem has outside of content, in the real world. Everyone always seems to think math and the real world are separate. I'd like to see the real world applications of this well known theorem. 

Some possible resources I may use:
Online Sources

Books

Journals

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5 comments:

  1. UnknownJuly 6, 2015 at 9:10 PM

    Hello Laura,

    I like the start of your blog, but just make sure you start the things you already know about the Pythagorean Theorem. Can't wait to learn the history of the Pythagorean Theorem.

    Dan VanderWielen

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  2. UnknownJuly 8, 2015 at 8:37 AM

    The video is great! I'd definitely share this post with others since it is easy to read and pretty engaging. I look forward to reading up on how you explore the modern uses of the Pythagorean theorem as well as enlightening us with its history!

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  3. Candance Doerr-Stevens (a.k.a. "dancing stylus")July 14, 2015 at 9:52 AM

    I agree with Gloria and Dan. This pop-culture investigation of the pythagorean theorem breaths new life into an old concept, while also perhaps leading to some culturally relevant texts. I look forward to learning more.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Candance Doerr-Stevens (a.k.a. "dancing stylus")July 14, 2015 at 9:53 AM

    p.s. The video you included is great! Ridiculous at moments but also a great challenge to students to create an even better video.

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