6 Summary

This unit has focused on exploring the mathematical concepts of area and perimeter by helping the students to develop an understanding of and distinction between the concepts. The activities asked the students to use examples and objects that they can find around them and build on their intuitive understanding.

In reading this unit you will have thought about how to enable your students to create examples themselves, think mathematically and reflect on the thinking processes involved.

You will also have considered how to help your students to understand the concepts of area and perimeter by learning through talking in pairs, in groups and in whole-class discussions.

Pause for thought Identify three ideas that you have used in this unit that would also work well when teaching other topics. Make a note of two topics that you have to teach soon where those ideas can be used with some small adjustments.