Lesson Plan

The Distance from a Point to a Line

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

What is the fastest way to get from point A to line l? A straight perpendicular line! Learners use what they have learned in the previous lessons in this series and develop a formula for finding the shortest distance from a point to a given line. They then apply their formula. 

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CCSS: Designed
Additional Tags
Instructional Ideas
  • Use as an extension lesson for top pupils who need a challenge
  • Use centimeter grid paper and have learners use a ruler to measure distances to verify results
Classroom Considerations
  • Uses abstract calculations that are difficult for many pupils; using numbers only (without developing the formula) may be necessary for some
  • Concludes a 15-part series of lessons focused on coordinate geometry
Pros
  • Emphasizes the purpose of a formula
  • Provides all necessary resources, answer keys, and a detailed teacher guide
Cons
  • None
Common Core