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Fence It Up: The Perimeter Challenge!- Math MYP 1- Moksha Sharma

Objective of the Learning Engagement: 

To develop students’ understanding of perimeter through real-world applications, problem-solving, and hands-on activities that foster spatial reasoning, critical thinking, and collaboration.

Details of the Learning Engagement:

As part of a hands-on mathematics and design project, students were tasked with creating a rectangular garden for their school, intended for growing vegetables and flowers. The primary goal was to determine the amount of fencing needed to enclose the garden for plant protection. Students carefully measured the dimensions of their proposed garden and calculated the perimeter using the appropriate mathematical formula. This real-world application allowed them to develop their skills in measurement, multiplication, and perimeter calculation while reinforcing the importance of precision in mathematical problem-solving.

For students who completed the task quickly, an additional challenge was introduced to extend their learning. The school planned to increase the garden’s length by 4 meters while keeping the width unchanged. These students recalculated the new perimeter to determine the additional fencing required, deepening their understanding of how changes in dimensions affect perimeter. Additionally, groups were given an extension task where they arranged blocks to match the dimensions of a given perimeter. Each group received a card with a specific perimeter value and had to collaborate to form possible rectangular arrangements that fit the given condition. This activity encouraged teamwork, spatial reasoning, and critical thinking as students explored multiple ways to construct rectangles or squares with the same perimeter.

Impact of the engagement on students and reflection as a teacher:

The project had a strong impact on students, enhancing their mathematical understanding and collaborative learning. Applying perimeter calculations to a real-world scenario helped them see the practical relevance of math while strengthening problem-solving and reasoning skills. The extension task of arranging blocks for a given perimeter deepened spatial awareness and encouraged peer discussions, fostering confidence and engagement.

As a teacher, this experience highlighted the value of hands-on, inquiry-driven learning. Observing students collaborate, justify their reasoning, and explore different solutions reinforced the importance of experiential activities in deepening conceptual understanding. The project not only enhanced mathematical skills but also promoted critical thinking, adaptability, and teamwork—key skills for lifelong learning.


-Moksha Sharma

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