Pythagorean Distance on a Coordinate Plane

Multiple Choice

Recall:

Using the figure below, find the value of the length of side 𝐴𝐵 in meters.

• 32

• 8

• 6

• 10

​1. connect any given points on the coordinate grid

2. create a right triangle by plotting additional points and connecting the points with line segments.

3. count the number of units for each leg

4. use the Pythagorean Theorem to solve for the hypotenuse.

Draw

I Do:

Find the distance between the points J and K shown on the coordinate plane. Show work to justify your answer.

Draw

We Do:

Find the distance between points A and B in the coordinate plane. Show work to justify your answer.

Draw

You Do:

Pineridge Middle School was given a grant from Home Helper Depot to create a triangular garden along a wall of the cafeteria for fresh vegetables. The length of the hypotenuse and the sides are being determined to see if it will fit in the space.

On the model for the garden, the designer started by plotting the points (2, 2) and (6, 5) on a coordinate plane and connected the points with a line. She needs to complete the triangular model and determine all three side lengths.

​1. connect any given points on the coordinate grid

2. create a right triangle by plotting additional points and connecting the points with line segments.

3. count the number of units for each leg

4. use the Pythagorean Theorem to solve for the hypotenuse.

Open Ended

How can you connect the Pythagorean Theorem, learned previously, to finding the distance between two points on a coordinate grid?

Draw

Exit Ticket:

On a coordinate plane, plot the points (−3, 4) and (0,−3).

Using the Pythagorean Theorem, determine the distance between the two points.