Third graders at Dows Lane Elementary School embraced the challenge of measuring area during a recent math lesson in Andrea Plunkett’s classroom. Using cut-out squares, they identified the area of various shapes before designing new shapes with the same area as the ones they measured. The hands-on approach allowed them to actively engage with the concept of area and measurement in a meaningful way.
Building on their ongoing exploration of area and cubic squares, the students applied their understanding by measuring the number of cubic squares within a shape to determine its area. Through collaborative learning, they reinforced their knowledge by creating different shapes with equal areas, fostering both critical thinking and mathematical reasoning.
In addition, Plunkett connected the learning to real-life applications – discussing how area is essential in everyday scenarios, such as ordering carpet for a room or arranging furniture to fit a space.
