Length and Perimeter - Measure perimeter​ - Planning

In this engaging Year 3 lesson, students embark on a journey to understand the concept of perimeter as part of their Spring term studies in Length and Perimeter. The lesson is well-resourced, featuring worksheets, a presentation, classroom objects, rulers, and sticky notes to facilitate interactive learning. Key vocabulary such as 'metres', 'centimetres', 'perimeter', and 'accurate' is introduced. The lesson starts off with a recap of previous learning, including units of measurement, and then progresses to a hands-on activity where students trace around classroom objects to grasp the concept of perimeter. They are encouraged to define perimeter for a working wall and discuss how to measure it, particularly addressing the challenge of measuring shapes with curved sides using string. The practical aspect of the lesson extends to measuring the perimeter of a netball court with strides, a non-standard unit of measurement, fostering an understanding of distance and scale.

Throughout the lesson, partner discussions and practical tasks prompt students to consider which shapes have measurable perimeters and to articulate their reasoning using structured sentences. They measure the perimeters of various objects and record their findings, learning to use a ruler accurately. The lesson also includes reasoning tasks to consolidate measurement skills and address any misconceptions. An intriguing challenge is set for the students: using post-it notes as centimetre squares, they create different shapes and compare perimeters, discovering why perimeters vary even when the number of post-it notes remains constant. By the end of the lesson, students are expected to have enhanced their understanding of perimeter, addition skills, and properties of 2D shapes. Differentiated worksheets cater to varying levels of proficiency, from simple rectangular shapes for beginners to more complex shapes for those working at greater depth, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to master the concept of perimeter.