Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Perimeter!

Perimeter is the distance around a figure. You can find perimeter by adding all of the side lengths together, or by using a formula. For example, the formula for perimeter of a square is 4s (4 x side length), and the formula for perimeter of a rectangel is 2l + 2w (2 x length + 2 x width). If the shape is irregular, you simply have to add all sides together!

**TRY THIS CHALLENGE QUESTION**
Find the greatest perimeter possible when 6 identical unit squares are arranged to form a closed figure. Adjacent squares (neighboring squares) must share an entire side. You will probably have to draw out six squares and either cut them out or manipulate them on your paper until you find the arrangement with the greatest perimeter :)