Max Maths, Year 6, Learn together, Perimeters of compound shapes

In the Max Maths Year 6 curriculum, students learn how to calculate the perimeters of compound shapes through practical examples. One such example involves finding the perimeter of an L-shaped lawn with given lengths and widths. To determine the perimeter, students first identify and label each side of the lawn. They then use the provided measurements to calculate the unknown lengths. For instance, side C is found by adding the lengths of sides A and E (15 m + 10 m), resulting in 25 m. Similarly, side F is calculated by subtracting the length of side D from side B (75 m - 15 m), giving a length of 60 m.

With all side lengths established, students can sum them up to find the total perimeter of the lawn. The formula used is the sum of all sides: A + B + C + D + E + F. By adding the measurements of each side (15 m + 75 m + 25 m + 15 m + 10 m + 60 m), they find that the perimeter of the lawn is 200 meters. This exercise also prompts students to consider how they might approach finding the perimeter when not all side lengths are known, encouraging problem-solving and the application of mathematical reasoning to determine missing measurements.