"An Introduction to Area and Perimeter"

Edwina R. Justice              Gunsaulus Scholastic Academy
                               4420 South Sacramento Ave.
                               Chicago IL   60632
                               (312) 535-7215

Objectives (Staff):

     Demonstrate a phenomenological approach to teaching mathematics

     Inspire others to use the approach

Objectives (Grades 4-7):

     Form rectangles by using tiles

     Measure area and perimeter by counting

     Measure and record area and perimeter

     Describe dimensions of rectangles

     Discover and apply rules for measuring area and perimeter

     Measure rectangles using transparent grids and determine area and perimeter

     Observe patterns formed by rectangles with constant area or perimeter

Materials Needed:

     inch grids            centimeter grids              scissors

     worksheets with tables for recording area and perimeter

Recommended Strategy:

     Cut 24 thirty-six inch tiles

     Use tiles to make rectangles

     Count tables (area) and number of people who can sit at the table 
     (perimeter)

     Show all rectangles on grid with area equal to 12 square cm.

     Discuss dimensions

     Introduce appropriate mathematical vocabulary

     Order rectangles from largest to smallest perimeter

     Compare shapes of rectangles with area equal to 12 square cm.

     Record dimensions, area, and perimeter

     Apply rules for finding area and perimeter

     Measure rectangles of various sizes by using transparent inch grids

     Record dimensions, area and perimeter

     Show all rectangles with area equal to 24 square cm.

     Record dimensions, area, and perimeter

     Demonstrate pattern formed by rectangles with constant area

     Show all rectangles with perimeter equal to 24 cm.

     Record dimensions, area, and perimeter

     Demonstrate pattern formed by rectangles with constant perimeter
     
Performance Assessment:

     Draw representations of two gardens with the same area, but with different 
     dimensions.  Fencing materials must be purchased.  Which garden will cost 
     less money?  Explain your answer.