Investigating Area with Graph Paper

Investigating the AREA of Squares and Rectangles

With just some simple graph paper which can be downloaded for free at multiple sites and a few pencils, crayons, or markers and a ruler (optional) kids can have fun exploring the concept of AREA.

Have the kids draw and color different sized squares and rectangles on graph paper. Younger kids can then count the squares (square units)  inside the shape to calculate the AREA. Then they could find the shape that has the smallest area and also the shape with the LARGEST area.

Older students can also use the Formula for the AREA of a Rectangle to find the area of each shape (Area = Length times Width).

Area of a Rectangle

AREA =L x W

As a follow up, discuss with children when we would need to use AREA in our everyday life. (buying a rug, carpet, wallpaper, tile, etc.)

A good source to download free graph paper is Do2Learn. You can click on the link below to go to their website.

http://www.do2learn.com/activities/mathhelpers/index.htm

  Have fun with area!