The measurement of area and perimeter are essential concepts in elementary school math, yet students often have trouble understanding them. Fortunately, there are many games that will help your students understand these two important concepts.
Area and Perimeter Games For Elementary School Math
These games are perfect for use within math centers, guided practice, and as a fun review before tests. They also conserve ink and are easy to put together!
Fence It In – Area and Perimeter Games
Fence It In is a fun activity that helps learners understand the concept of area and perimeter. It includes 9 double-sided task cards, square tiles, and rulers. The card game offers challenges that require players to use these tools to measure the area and perimeter of a mystery shape. The tasks are easy to do, but it can still be frustrating at times.
Regardless of whether the game is meant for beginners or more advanced students, there are several things that should be kept in mind. First, be patient and bide your time. This is important because timing is critical for successful fencing. It also helps if you change partners frequently because different opponents can teach you different lessons. You should always try to keep your feet as light on the floor as possible, which is easier to do when you are using nimble footwork.
It is a great game to practice and build confidence. It is also an excellent way to spend time with your kids! If you have a fence in your backyard, it is a fun and exciting way to get the family involved.
Geoboards – Area Games
Geoboards are a great way to introduce students to the concepts of area and perimeter. They also encourage kids to think abstractly while developing their fine motor skills, spatial skills, hand-eye coordination, and directional awareness.
They can be made from a variety of materials, such as wood and plastic, and they are designed for use by preschoolers through high school. They typically have a square lattice of nails on one side, or a circle of nails around a central nail.
The boards were first used to teach geometry by Egyptian-born English educator Caleb Gattegno in 1954. The simple construction of the board — wooden squares with nails or brass pins arranged on rubber bands that can be stretched into various shapes — invites exploration across a range of age and mathematical understanding.
Perimeter Games
Teachers often use geoboards to introduce students to shapes, such as triangles, and their properties. They can then use the board to demonstrate fractions of square units, symmetry, and the property that similar figures have the same area.
Although they may seem like a bit of a pain to clean up, geoboards are a great tool for teachers who want to engage kids in a fun and engaging way while learning about math. They can be used for guided learning activities or for free play time.
