Contents: Introduction Task Process Resources Learning Advice Conclusion
In our geometry class we have learned about the Pythagorean Theorem and have used it in a few different contexts. Why is it named the Pythagorean Theorem? Who was this Pythagoras? For the next 3 days you will do this webquest in class to search out information about Pythagoras.
WATCH THIS: Short powerpoint with basic information on Pythagoras (click to get through it)
As part of this assignment you are both required to write your own individual papers (2 pages, double-spaced, 1-inch margins). Include the name of your partner at the top so I can make sure you do not have the same paper, but you will have similar information about Pythagoras, who he was, what he taught and believed, tell about his followers, etc.
You will work in pairs to search out this information. Keep track of your findings in microsoft word (to help guide you when writing your paper). Here are some questions to guide your learning. You are required to include answers and explanations you find to 4 of the following questions, and you can include interesting information you found about him that is not listed.
You and your partner will work on separate
computers.
Divide up the internet resources between you two to find interesting
information as well as answers to the questions.
Search the internet resources (remember to save time to write your
paper or it becomes homework).
Share information you find with your partner.
Keep notes in microsoft word (just in a different window) that you
will use to write your own individual paper.
After you think you have sufficient information to fill two pages
organize it into topics that will be paragraphs in your paper.
Write your paper, include a short introduction and
conclusion.
Here are internet links that will help you find out information about Pythagoras. I have looked through these thoroughly, so I will know if you have just copied paragraphs into your papers. Please write the information you find in your own words.
44 Proofs to the Pythagorean Theorem
Animated Proof of the Pythagorean Theorem and more fun information (and joke)
Mythical Pythagorean Lifestyle
Mathematical Universe-meanings of numbers
Meanings of numbers and mysticism
Lots of info- look for what numbers stand for
More Lots of info on Pythagoras
Learning Advice (Helpful teacher-tips)
Quickly look through web links. Do not spend lots of time reading pages and pages of information. Skim for good stuff and then read particular paragraphs.
Share your cool and useful information with your partner. You WILL NOT be docked for having similar information (you are supposed to, you are partners), just for having the same wording in your papers because only one person typed it and did the work.
Keep good notes as you find information so you do not have to go back to the webpage and re-read it.
Organize your notes by topic (questions listed above are good topics).
Write your paper from your notes.
Save time (maybe the last day or write it throughout) to write your paper so you do not have to do it at home.
I hope you have had fun learning about the strange group of the Pythagoreans and their leader Pythagoras, and have been able to write a information-full paper on them. Now you know where some of our math has originated.