Mathematics
Grade 6
15 min
Perimeter
Perimeter
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1
Introduction & Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Define perimeter as the distance around a two-dimensional shape.
Calculate the perimeter of squares and rectangles using appropriate formulas.
Calculate the perimeter of any polygon by adding the lengths of all its sides.
Solve real-world problems involving perimeter.
Distinguish between perimeter and area.
Find missing side lengths of polygons when given the perimeter and other side lengths.
Have you ever wondered how much fence you'd need to go around your backyard, or how much ribbon to put around a gift box? 🎁 That's where perimeter comes in!
In this lesson, you'll learn what perimeter is and how to calculate it for various shapes. Understanding perimeter helps us solve practical problems in everyday life, from home improvement to spo...
2
Key Concepts & Vocabulary
TermDefinitionExample
PerimeterThe total distance around the outside edge of a two-dimensional shape.If you walk along all the edges of a rectangular park, the total distance you walk is the perimeter of the park.
PolygonA closed two-dimensional shape made up of three or more straight line segments.Triangles, squares, rectangles, and pentagons are all examples of polygons.
Side LengthThe length of one of the straight line segments that form the boundary of a polygon.In a square, if one side measures 5 cm, then 5 cm is its side length.
RectangleA four-sided polygon (quadrilateral) with four right angles, where opposite sides are equal in length.A typical door, a window, or a sheet of paper are common examples of rectangles.
SquareA four-sided polygon (quadrilateral) with four equal sides a...
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Core Formulas
Perimeter of Any Polygon
$P = s_1 + s_2 + s_3 + ... + s_n$
To find the perimeter of any polygon, simply add the lengths of all its sides. This rule works for all polygons, regardless of their shape or the number of sides.
Perimeter of a Rectangle
$P = 2 \times (l + w)$ or $P = 2l + 2w$
For a rectangle with length 'l' and width 'w', you can add the length and width and then multiply the sum by 2. Alternatively, you can add two lengths and two widths together.
Perimeter of a Square
$P = 4 \times s$
For a square with side length 's', multiply the side length by 4 because all four sides of a square are equal in length.
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Challenging
A rectangular room is 14 feet long and 10 feet wide. A decorative border is sold in rolls that are 15 feet long. How many full rolls must be purchased to put a border around the entire room?
A.2 rolls
B.3 rolls
C.5 rolls
D.4 rolls
Challenging
A piece of wire 70 cm long is bent to form a rectangle. If the length of the rectangle is 20 cm, what is its width?
A.15 cm
B.25 cm
C.35 cm
D.50 cm
Challenging
A square and an equilateral triangle have the same perimeter of 24 cm. What is the difference between the side length of the square and the side length of the triangle?
A.1 cm
B.2 cm
C.3 cm
D.4 cm
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