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      Know that perimeter can be calculated by adding together the side lengths of a 2D shape

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can calculate the perimeter of a 2D shape by adding together the lengths of the sides.

      Key learning points

      1. Perimeter is the sum of the side lengths of a 2D shape.
      2. If you measure the side lengths you can add them to calculate the perimeter.
      3. Mental and written methods can be used to calculate the perimeter of a 2D shape.

      Keywords

      • Perimeter - The distance around a two-dimensional shape.

      Common misconception

      Pupils may believe that there is only one way to add the perimeter of a shape - typically clockwise, starting from the top. This is untrue and will limit the efficiency of the arithmetic.

      The lesson presents the idea of the side lengths being given in counters. The counters can then be re-ordered, for example so that a number bond to ten can be utilised. Using counters or sticky notes or similar may support pupils.

      Teacher tip

      This lesson uses fluency in addition and pupils should be secure in number bonds within 20 and summing single digits mentally. Consider how you may revisit these key facts prior to the lesson or provide a scaffold for less fluent learners.

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      Match the numbers so that they sum to 10

      Correct Answer:7 ,3

      3

      Correct Answer:5,5

      5

      Correct Answer:4,6

      6

      Correct Answer:2,8

      8

      Q2.
      Complete: 4 + 3 + 4 + 3 =

      Correct Answer: 14

      Q3.
      Match the unit of measure to the correct abbreviation.

      Correct Answer:millimetre ,mm

      mm

      Correct Answer:centimetre ,cm

      cm

      Correct Answer:metre,m

      m

      Correct Answer:kilometre ,km

      km

      Q4.
      16 + 8 =

      Correct Answer: 24

      Q5.
      This shape has a perimeter of units.

      An image in a quiz
      Correct Answer: 6, six

      Q6.
      What is the perimeter of this shape? units.

      An image in a quiz
      Correct Answer: 14

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      Which calculations could be used to work out the perimeter of the number shape?

      An image in a quiz
      3 + 2
      Correct answer: 2 + 3 + 2 + 3
      Correct answer: 3 + 3 + 2 + 2
      Correct answer: 3 + 2 + 3 + 2
      3 + 2 + 3 + 2 + 3

      Q2.
      Use adding to find the perimeter of the shape. The perimeter is units.

      An image in a quiz
      Correct Answer: 12

      Q3.
      Laura says the perimeter of this shape is 6 units. What mistake do you think she has made?

      An image in a quiz
      Counted one side twice.
      Correct answer: Not counted all of the sides.
      Counted the squares inside the shape.

      Q4.
      What is the perimeter of this shape? units.

      An image in a quiz
      Correct Answer: 19

      Q5.
      Which of these statements is true?

      An image in a quiz
      There is not enough information to work out the perimeter of this rectangle.
      Correct answer: You can work out the perimeter of the rectangle by calculating 4 + 5 + 4 + 5
      Correct answer: You can work out the perimeter of the rectangle by calculating 5 + 5 + 4 + 4

      Q6.
      What is the perimeter of this square? units.

      An image in a quiz
      Correct Answer: 12

      To help you plan your 4 maths lesson on: Know that perimeter can be calculated by adding together the side lengths of a 2D shape, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...