Pythagoras of Samos

Summary
This lesson introduces students to Pythagoras and Pythagoreans.

Objectives
• To be able to explain the main interests of Pythagoras and Pythagoreans.

• To be able describe the concept of ?the harmony of the spheres? and the relation of mathematics and music.

• To be able to understand Pythagoras? theorem.

Suggested Grades
4th Grade
5th Grade
6th Grade

Excerpt
Pythagoras was born on Samos, a Greek island. He traveled to Italy and Egypt. He settled in Croton in Italy and founded the Pythagorean school. The followers of Pythagoras were called the Pythagoreans. Both men and women were permitted to join the society and were regarded equally. The Pythagoreans were divided into two groups. The inner circle, also known as the ?mathematikoi? (mathematicians), observed stricter rules, lived permanently within the Society, and had no personal possessions. They were taught by Pythagoras himself and learned detailed knowledge. The outer circle, also referred to as the ?akousmatics? (listeners), lived in their own houses, only coming to the Society during the day.

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