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An Interactive Proof of Pythagoras' theorem

 

Ratings

Overall Rating:

4 stars
Content Quality: 5 stars
Effectiveness: 4 stars
Ease of Use: 5 stars
Reviewed: Mar 13, 2005 by Mathematics
Overview: This site contains an interactive applet that shows a step-by-step graphic proof
of Pythagoras' theorem.
Learning Goals: To illustrate one of the proofs of the famous Pythagorean Theorem.
Target Student Population: Geometry students.
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills: Very basic knowledge in plane geometry.
Type of Material: Simulation.
Recommended Uses: Classroom demonstration
Technical Requirements: It requires a "Java-enabled" browser.

Evaluation and Observation

Content Quality

Rating: 5 stars
Strengths: This applet provides the user with a graphical step-by-step proof of Pythagoras’
Theorem, using what is called the “shears” method. Explanations for each step
appear in the bottom window right underneath the animation window.
Concerns: None.

Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool

Rating: 4 stars
Strengths: This applet is a great tool for an in-class demonstration in Geometry courses.

Flexibility in choosing the original right triangle is a plus, since it
demonstrates that the argument is independent of how the picture is drawn.

The step-by-step explanations are clear and present a verbal counterpart to the
graphics.
Concerns: Grammar can be improved within the explanations.

Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty

Rating: 5 stars
Strengths: The applet is very easy to use. The average user can begin using the applet
immediately.
Concerns: None.

Other Issues and Comments:
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