Perimeter, Area and Volume - Area of a Parallelogram - Worksheet

The worksheet focuses on the measurement of the area of a parallelogram, aligning with the National Curriculum objective to recognise and use formulae for the area and volume of shapes. It specifically targets the calculation of the area of parallelograms and triangles. To facilitate learning, differentiated sheets and teaching slides are provided as resources. The key vocabulary for the lesson includes terms such as area, rectangle, parallelogram, and formula. Students utilise their understanding of the area of a rectangle to discover the area of a parallelogram. They explore the relationship between the two shapes by cutting and rearranging a parallelogram into a rectangle, which helps them grasp the rationale behind the area formula for parallelograms.

Students are encouraged to engage with key questions, such as describing a parallelogram, observing the similarities between the areas of rectangles and parallelograms, and determining the formula for the area of a parallelogram. The learning activities involve counting the base and height of parallelograms in squares, including rotated parallelograms, and calculating the combined areas of shapes made up of triangles, parallelograms, and rectangles. Additionally, the worksheet includes reasoning and problem-solving exercises where students must identify and correct mistakes in area calculations, such as a scenario where Zach incorrectly calculates the area of a parallelogram by using the wrong dimensions. These exercises reinforce the importance of using the perpendicular height in area calculations and provide answers to guide students towards a correct understanding.