Mathematics
Grade 7
15 min
Area and perimeter: word problems
Area and perimeter: word problems
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1
Introduction & Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Identify keywords in word problems to determine whether to calculate area or perimeter.
Select and apply the correct formulas for area and perimeter of rectangles and squares.
Set up and solve one-step or two-step equations derived from area and perimeter word problems.
Calculate unknown dimensions of shapes given their area or perimeter and one dimension.
Interpret their mathematical solutions in the context of the original word problem, including appropriate units.
Solve multi-step word problems involving both area and perimeter calculations.
Handle basic unit conversions within area and perimeter problems (e.g., feet to inches).
Ever wondered how much paint you need for a wall or how much fence for your backyard? 🏡 These real-world puzzles often inv...
2
Key Concepts & Vocabulary
TermDefinitionExample
Word ProblemA mathematical problem presented in a narrative or descriptive form, requiring careful reading and interpretation to identify the mathematical operations needed.Sarah wants to put a fence around her rectangular garden that is 10 feet long and 5 feet wide. How much fencing does she need?
AreaThe amount of two-dimensional space a shape covers, measured in square units.The area of a classroom floor might be 300 square feet ($300 ext{ ft}^2$). This tells you how much carpet you'd need.
PerimeterThe total distance around the outside edge of a two-dimensional shape, measured in linear units.The perimeter of a soccer field might be 300 meters. This tells you how far a player runs if they go around the edge once.
DimensionsThe measurements of length, width,...
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Core Formulas
Area of a Rectangle
$A = l \times w$
Use this formula to find the space covered by a rectangular shape, where 'l' is the length and 'w' is the width. The answer will be in square units.
Perimeter of a Rectangle
$P = 2(l + w)$ or $P = 2l + 2w$
Use this formula to find the total distance around the outside of a rectangular shape, where 'l' is the length and 'w' is the width. The answer will be in linear units.
Area of a Square
$A = s^2$
Use this formula to find the space covered by a square shape, where 's' is the length of one side. The answer will be in square units.
Perimeter of a Square
$P = 4s$
Use this formula to find the total distance around the outside of a square shape, where 's' is the lengt...
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Sign Up Free to ContinueSample Practice Questions
Easy
A gardener is planning to build a fence to go around a rectangular vegetable patch. Which of the following measurements is the gardener most likely trying to find?
A.Area
B.Perimeter
C.Volume
D.Diagonal
Easy
A homeowner wants to buy enough carpet to cover their entire rectangular living room floor. Which calculation is necessary to determine the amount of carpet needed?
A.Area
B.Perimeter
C.The length of one wall
D.The sum of the wall lengths
Easy
A rectangular park is 50 meters long and 30 meters wide. If you walk along the very edge of the park one time, how far have you walked?
A.80 meters
B.1500 meters
C.160 meters
D.150 meters
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