Pythagorean Theorem submitted by: Jeff LeMieux, May 2003 This narrative describes how I use my javascript tool, cataloged in the Math Tools digital library, in the classroom. Course: Math 7 Topic: Pythagorean Theorem Resource type: JavaScript Resource location: http://www2.whidbey.net/ohmsmath/webwork/javascript/p_thag.html Math Forum catalogue entry: http://mathforum.org/mathtools/tool.html?rc=tool&new_id=796 Story:  There are many versions of JavaScripts which solve problems dealing with the Pythagorean Theorem. What was missing from them was a display of the actual problem set-up and solution. This script allow the student to submit a value for any two of the three sides. It then shows the answer for the remaining side and shows the problem set up and solution steps for the students to copy/note for their assignment. Too often students will plug numbers into a calculator and copy down an answer. They often expect to receive credit for solving the problem even though they have no tangible evidence of how the problem was solved. This procedure allows them to see the actual calculations and application of the Pythagorean Theorem to arrive at the answer. Where and how I used this:  This script is generally located on the weekly lesson plan page where students may access it to help them with their homework assignments. Before it is made available, the Pythagorean Theorem is covered in the classroom and is usually associated with activities which show the application (There are multiple on-line proofs for thr Pythagorean Theorem. Most search engines will return many choices). Another introductory piece are the procedures for solving equations so student can take the basic theorem a² + b² = c² and solve for b and/or a. Send comments to Jeff LeMieux at tackweed@whidbey.net Jeff LeMieux May 2003 http://www2.whidbey.net/ohmsmath