Math Games for Finding Area and Perimeter

Finding Area and Perimeter

At the third grade level, your child will learn how to calculate the area of a 2-dimensional figure using multiplication. To calculate the area of a shape, use the formula A = l x w, where A represents the area, l represents the length and w is the width. He or she will also learn how to determine the perimeter of different shapes by adding the lengths of each side together. Hands-on activities are often a great way to give your child practice calculating area and perimeter at home while still having fun.

Area Activities

Make It Big!

For this activity, provide your child with two sheets of construction paper, a pair of scissors and tape. First, have your child calculate the area of one sheet of paper. Then, challenge your child to create the largest rectangle possible by cutting the construction paper. Once your child has created the rectangle, have him or her determine the area of the figure using a ruler. Is it the same or different than the area of the first sheet of paper?

How Many Does It Take?

Have your child cut out several 1-inch by 1-inch squares from construction paper. Then, your child should draw a large rectangle and have him or her fill it with squares. Count the total number of squares to determine the rectangle's area.

Perimeter Activities

Let's Measure

Have your child calculate the perimeter of household items, such as the kitchen table. Begin by asking your child to find the perimeter using a nonstandard unit of measurement, like his or her hand or a wooden spoon. After recording the nonstandard measurement, have your child determine the perimeter of the same item using a standard form of measurement. Compare the two measurements of perimeter and discuss the accuracy of each with your child.

Outdoor Shapes

Create shapes in your backyard using string. For instance, you might use three pieces of lawn furniture to create a triangle. Using a tape measure, have your child determine the lengths of each side of the shape. He or she will use these measurements to calculate the perimeter for each shape you create.