Description
Our Area and Perimeter Lesson Plan introduces the definition of area and perimeter, as well as the formulas for calculating the area and perimeter of squares and rectangles. With ample opportunities for experiential practice and additional resources to ensure understanding, students solidify the conceptual and formula differences between calculating perimeter and computing area.
Sample Classroom Procedure / Teacher Instruction
- Display different-sized rectangles and squares. Ask students what the figures have in common with each other.
- Allow for responses and discussion. Introduce the areas and perimeters of the figures.
- Distribute Area and Perimeter content pages. Read and review the information with the students. Review the examples by displaying them for students to see more clearly.
- Stress the difference between area and perimeter. To help with perimeter, tell students to “walk” the perimeter of the squares or rectangles. Use the additional resources to enhance understanding.
- Distribute Activity page. Read and review the instructions. Distribute scissors, rulers, and extra charts for recording information. (The students should be able to make 5 squares and many more rectangles.)
- Watch students as they work to make sure they are making squares and rectangles, and no other figures.
- Once students have completed, allow volunteers to share their work. Check for understanding.
- Distribute Practice page. Check and review the students’ responses. (The Laundry/WC/Lin perimeter may be tricky for some students.)
- Distribute the Homework page. The next day, check and review the students’ responses.
- In closing, ask the content pages’ question: Can you think of a familiar square or rectangle in your town or neighborhood? Can you estimate its perimeter and area?
- Allow for responses and discussion.
- Ask: Why do you think city blocks and towns are often shaped like squares and rectangles?
- Allow for responses and discussion. (Ease of planning/ building, less costly, etc.).
Common Core State Standards: CCSS.Math.Content.4.MD.A.3 CCSS.Math.Content.5.MD.C.5.A CCSS.Math.Content.6.G.A.1
Class Sessions (45 minutes): At least 2 class sessions
Additional Resources:
Want more math resources? Check out our other Math Lesson Plans!
