Decomposing Areas Activity Pack

This is a Decomposing Areas Activity Pack.

There are 2 worksheets included.

For the first worksheet, students will:

-Cut out the whole rectilinear shape.

-Then cut (decompose) the whole shape into smaller rectilinear shapes to help determine the area of the whole.

-Each square represents 1 square inch (or 1 in²).

-Draw the outline of each smaller shape they created on the grid at the bottom of the page.

They will be finding the area for 6 different shapes. When they have done so, they will find the total area of the whole rectilinear shape.

An example of a possible solution is included.

For the second worksheet, students will:

-Look at the shapes shown on the graph paper.

-Draw lines to decompose them into squares or rectangles and write the areas of each before adding them up.

-Write their answers on the following page.

-The first one is done for them.

An answer key is included.

Both of these worksheets can be completed independently, in small groups, or as homework.

If this is a skill that has already been introduced and reviewed, this worksheet can be completed independently if you want to take a grade on it. Give students enough time to complete one (or both) of the worksheets without feeling rushed.

If this is a new skill, small groups would be great so that you can informally assess how well students are beginning to master this skill.

Small groups or homework will provide students with the additional practice they may need.

A 7 page printable PDF