This math unit develops students' understanding of area calculation for parallelograms and trapezoids through a sequential approach that builds from foundational concepts to more complex applications. Initially, students learn to identify missing side lengths of parallelograms, which segues into calculating their areas by relating them to rectangles with equivalent areas. As the unit progresses, problems evolve to include interpreting and manipulating the dimensions of rectangles to match the areas of given parallelograms and trapezoids, enhancing students' visual and analytical skills. Further, the unit introduces trapezoids by first exploring their areas using simplified models like half squares. It progresses to more advanced exercises requiring the calculation of trapezoid areas by averaging bases and matching these to areas of equivalent rectangles. The unit culminates in deeper engagements with area calculations, where students apply geometric and algebraic concepts to solve for areas of trapezoids using given dimensions, thereby reinforcing their understanding of area calculations within geometry.Skills you will learn include:
Topics are small, focused areas which build towards the greater unit's goals.