Perimeter, Area, and Volume
Geometry becomes much more meaningful when students can see, build, and manipulate shapes. This page brings together hands‑on activities, real‑world applications, and a free PowerPoint that introduces perimeter, area, and volume through clear examples and interactive practice.
Hover over each shape to see its properties.
| Shape | Sides | Angles | Vertices | Diagonals | Sum of Angles |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Triangle | 3 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 180° |
| Quadrilateral | 4 | 4 | 4 | 2 | 360° |
| Pentagon | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 540° |
| Hexagon | 6 | 6 | 6 | 9 | 720° |
| Heptagon | 7 | 7 | 7 | 14 | 900° |
| Octagon | 8 | 8 | 8 | 20 | 1,080° |
| Decagon | 10 | 10 | 10 | 35 | 1,440° |
| Dodecagon | 12 | 12 | 12 | 54 | 1,800° |
Read the description and click the correct quadrilateral!
Count the unit squares inside each shape to find its area — just like the Cheez-It activity! Click each square to count it, then check your answer.
A property is shown — click the shape it describes!
Select the correct shape name for each description.
Type the correct number for each property question.
Calculate the area or perimeter for each shape.
Give each student 12 stick pretzels and have them “build” a fence for a puppy. Students draw their fence on grid paper and calculate the perimeter. Then they rearrange the pretzels to create a new fence and compare the results.
Students fold three different sizes of cardstock to create greeting cards. Their challenge is to determine which card requires the least decorative material around the perimeter. This activity connects geometry to real‑world problem solving and creativity.
Using the printable, students place Cheez‑Its on rectangles and squares to determine area. This hands‑on activity helps students visualize square units and compare shapes.
Students cut the triangle off one side of a parallelogram and move it to the opposite side to form a rectangle. This simple demonstration helps them understand why the area formula for parallelograms matches the area of a rectangle.
Students construct small bridges from Popsicle sticks, then calculate the area of the sides and base. This project blends geometry with engineering and measurement skills.
Explore more perimeter and area practice with these online resources and printable worksheets.
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