Year 5 - Maths
Calculate the area of shapes made from 2 or more rectangles
Link area of rectangles to multiplication
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This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.
Unit Summary
In this unit pupils will calculate the area of a rectangle using multiplication and use their knowledge of area to solve problems.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to calculate the area of shapes made from 2 or more rectangles.
Key Notes
- To find the area of a rectangle you multiply the length by the width.
- Compare different methods to decompose shapes and decide which is the most efficient.
- Choose the most efficient calculation strategies to calculate the area of a compound rectilinear shape.
Vocabulary To Learn
- Compound: A compound shape is made up of two or more shapes.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- There is only one way to split a compound shape to calculate the area.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.
To find the area of a rectangle you multiply the length by the width. Compare different methods to decompose shapes and decide which is the most efficient.
2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Compound'
A compound shape is made up of two or more shapes. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.
3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.
Mistake: There is only one way to split a compound shape to calculate the area. Correction: Make time in the lesson to model and discuss different ways of calculating the area of compound shapes. Include strategies that move parts of the shape to simplify the shape and the calculations needed.
More Lessons In This Unit
- Calculate missing dimensions in rectangles and compound rectilinear shapes Study Guide
- Calculate the area of compound rectilinear shapes Study Guide
- Calculate the area of shapes made from 2 rectangles by decomposing the shape in different ways Study Guide
- Calculate the areas of rectangles using multiplication Study Guide
- Choose an efficient way to decompose a compound shape to calculate the area Study Guide
- Explain how to calculate the area of a rectangle using multiplication Study Guide
- Measure the area of flat shapes using square centimetres Study Guide
- Measure the area of flat shapes using square metres Study Guide
- Use knowledge of area to solve problems in a range of contexts Study Guide
Browse all guides in the Year 5 Maths guide library.