Lesson Description:
SQUAREA (a hybrid word I created which stands for "Square Area") is a hands-on math project that helps students to discover
area, volume, and surface area in a very concrete, visual manner. Students measure objects in a classroom, create square
feet, draw square inches, construct cubic feet, construct square yards and cubic yards, and investigate the surface area of
a cube.
Math Content:
Area, Volume, and Surface Area
Suggested Grade Level:
5th-8th
Time Required:
about 2 class periods
Materials Needed:
Construction paper, tape
Teacher Testimonial:
Since I developed this project I have used it several times with 6th and 7th grade students. The way in which it allows
them to actively learn the concepts or area, volume, and surface area is truly remarkable. The students are able to
visualize the concepts of a square inch, a square foot, and a square yard. They work cooperatively with others to incorporate
their personal square foot with others to create a cubic foot. Then they combine these with the cubic feet from other
classes to construct a cubic yard. I often have this cubic yard on display at Open House for the parents to see.
The SQUAREA Project includes:
- 2 SQUAREA Project student worksheets
- 2 SQUAREA Project student worksheet answer keys
- 1 SQUAREA Project Teacher Tips page
Enjoy your lesson!!
