The Pythagorean Theorem is synonymous with the Greek mathematician after whom it is named. However, the result was widely known about in a range of cultures around the world in the centuries before Pythagoras lived. The Pythagorean Theorem appeared in various ancient texts in which authors offered attempts to demonstrate and prove the result, as well as apply it in solving problems.
These activities for KS4 students explore a few of these appearances in order to better appreciate how maths has developed in a range of diverse cultures.
The activities would work well for students who are already familiar with the Pythagorean Theorem and are confident applying it. The activities also support students in developing their geometrical reasoning and in applying the Pythagorean Theorem to unfamiliar problems.
This is a great resource to use during Black History Month to explore maths in a range of diverse cultures.
