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Year 10 - Maths

Checking and securing understanding of congruent triangles (SSS)

Similarity

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils investigate the effect of an enlargement on the perimeter and area of a 2-D shape and the volume of a 3-D shape.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to understand and use the criteria by which triangles are congruent (SSS).

Key Notes

  • By knowing the three side lengths of the triangle and its image, you can prove congruence.
  • If congruent, the same multiplicative relationship will exist for each pair of side lengths.
  • The angle pairs will be the same.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Congruent: If one shape can fit exactly on top of another using rotation, reflection or translation, then the shapes are congruent.
  • Similar: Two shapes are similar if the only difference between them is their size. Their side lengths are in the same proportions.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Pupils may believe that knowing the three angles is sufficient to prove two triangles are congruent.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.

By knowing the three side lengths of the triangle and its image, you can prove congruence. If congruent, the same multiplicative relationship will exist for each pair of side lengths.

2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Congruent'

If one shape can fit exactly on top of another using rotation, reflection or translation, then the shapes are congruent. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.

3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.

Mistake: Pupils may believe that knowing the three angles is sufficient to prove two triangles are congruent. Correction: Use an equilateral triangle to show that, although two equilateral triangles have the same angles, they are not guaranteed to be congruent. In fact they are similar.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 10 Maths guide library.