Instructions
Read through the scenario below and complete the calculations and questions. You will calculate the area of a gerbil's habitat and think about how you can apply geometry to real-life situations!
Scenario
Your teacher has asked you to design a new habitat for a classroom gerbil named Gilly. Gilly's habitat will be rectangular in shape. The area of the habitat needs to be 2 square meters to ensure she has enough space to run around and play.
Step 1: Calculate the dimensions
If Gilly's habitat is 1 meter wide, what should the length be to get an area of 2 square meters?
Step 2: Different Dimensions
Now, let's think about different dimensions for Gilly's habitat. If you want the habitat to be a square instead, what would the length of each side be?
Step 3: Real-World Application
Think about how knowing the area can be important in your daily life. Write a short response explaining how you could use area calculations in other scenarios such as planning a garden, laying out a room, or even cooking. Be creative!
Step 4: Challenge Question
If Gilly's habitat is increased to a rectangular area of 3 square meters, and you want to keep the width constant at 1.5 meters, what will the new length be?
Step 5: Drawing the Habitat
Draw a simple diagram of Gilly's original habitat below, marking the width and length. Make sure to label your diagram!
Reflection
Reflect on what you learned about calculating area. Write a sentence on how you feel about using math in real life.