8th Grade · Geometry
Legs
8.G.B.8
Definition
The two perpendicular sides of a right triangle. When finding distance on a coordinate plane, the legs are the horizontal and vertical changes between the points.
Teach it
Where it is taught, with guided notes, practice, homework, an exit ticket and an interactive Teacher Deck.
Examples
- Horizontal leg = 6, vertical leg = 8 → distance = √(62+82) = 10.
- The legs form the right angle; the distance is the hypotenuse.
Key rule
On a coordinate plane, the legs are the change in x and the change in y.
Memory hook
Horizontal and vertical changes, forming the right angle.