Year 5 - Maths
Explain how to compare the area of different shapes
Understand the concept of area
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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 explain what area is and measure using counting as a strategy. They will make different shapes with the same area and compare the area of different shapes.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to compare the areas of different shapes.
Key Notes
- The units of counting area must be the same if you want to compare the areas of different shapes.
- The squares used to count the area must be the same size to compare the area of the shapes.
- The shape covering the most squares has the greatest area.
Vocabulary To Learn
- Area: The measurement of a flat surface. It measures a 2D space.
- Ascending: Items arranged from smallest to largest.
- Descending: Items arranged from largest to smallest.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- If two shapes share a dimension such as length, they must automatically have the same area.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.
The units of counting area must be the same if you want to compare the areas of different shapes. The squares used to count the area must be the same size to compare the area of the shapes.
2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Area'
The measurement of a flat surface. It measures a 2D space. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.
3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.
Mistake: If two shapes share a dimension such as length, they must automatically have the same area. Correction: Print out and enlarge the tasks so the shapes may be cut out and one laid on top of the other so that the difference can be seen.
More Lessons In This Unit
Browse all guides in the Year 5 Maths guide library.