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!!
Mark
