Problem Solving with Area and Perimeter
As part of their learning journey, 9H have been investigating how they can use different strategies to solve a range of problems involving the area and perimeter of rectangular shapes. Earlier in the year, they had worked on using algebra to form and solve equations and then more recently learnt how to divide quantities into a given ratio. These skills were recalled and utilised to help tackle area and perimeter problems like this one:
After some paired and class discussion, the girls were tasked to solve the problem using their preferred method. It was interesting from a teacher’s point of view to observe the thought processes involved and the direction that the girls decided to take to reach their answers.
The picture below shows Maariyah and Rebecca with their solutions. For part (b) of the question, Maariyah used algebra to set up and solve an equation whilst Rebecca took the ratio route to reach the same answer.
It was nice to see the students working both independently and collaboratively on the tasks and really thinking about how to break the problems down. I thoroughly enjoyed the lesson and although some may not admit it, I think they did too!
If you would like to test your own problem-solving skills, why not try this question that has particular relevance to recent events!
The length of a football pitch is 50% more than its width.
The perimeter of the football pitch is 400 yards.
Work out the length and the width of the football pitch.
Mr McVey
Mathematics Department
**ANSWER:
Length = 120 m
Width = 80 m
