Area and perimeter are two important concepts in mathematics that help us understand two-dimensional shapes. Perimeter is the measurement of the boundary of a shape, while area is the measure of the space occupied by the shape.
These concepts apply to all shapes, regardless of their regularity or irregularity. Each shape has its own specific formula to calculate its area and perimeter.
In this teaching guide, we will explore the definition of perimeter and area. Additionally, we will provide a variety of teaching resources like captivating animated stories, posters, worksheets, and activities that can help students grasp these concepts easily and learn the applications of these concepts in real-life scenarios. Let’s dive in!
Perimeter :
To find the perimeter of a shape, you can add up the lengths of all its sides or measure the outer boundary. In the case of polygons, you can calculate the perimeter by adding the lengths of their sides and expressing the result in the given units. Perimeter is measured in linear units like m, cm, etc.
For instance, if you want to fence your garden, the length of the fencing material needed corresponds to the perimeter of the garden. The image below shows the perimeter of a square, which is 20 units.
Area :
The area is the amount of space occupied by a shape, object, or flat surface. It is determined by counting the number of square units that fit into the figure. A square grid paper can be helpful in understanding the concept of area. By counting the unit squares enclosed by a figure, you can determine its area. The area is measured in square units like m2, cm2, etc.
In real-life situations, we use the concept of area to calculate the amount of paint needed for a wall, determine room dimensions or calculate tile requirements for a floor.
At the age of 9 to 11 years, children are taught about :
- Area and perimeter of the square
- Area and perimeter of a rectangle
- Area of an irregular shape
Teaching area and perimeter with kid-friendly, clear, and easy-to-understand posters from Uncle Math School by Fun2Do Labs :
Ignite kids’ curiosity with engaging stories for role play and skits, making the learning of this concept an exciting and effective experience. Teaching area and perimeter through stories from Uncle Math School by Fun2Do Labs :
Learning areas and perimeters can be made enjoyable by incorporating interactive games and activities.
Crack It With Crackers!
Children love activities including eatables. This is one of the easiest and most comfortable activities to perform with kids. This activity can be carried out by following these steps :
- Divide children into groups and arrange crackers as shown below in a square or rectangle shape as shown below.
- Instruct children to determine the area and perimeter of the shape formed by the crackers allotted to their group.
- Children can use these formulas to calculate area and perimeter:
- The perimeter of square = 4 x side
- Perimeter of the rectangle = 2 (l+b).
- Area of the square = side x side
- Area of a rectangle = l x b
Help your kids practise area and perimeter with interesting and engaging fun worksheets and solutions from Uncle Math by Fun2Do Labs.
