Calculating Perimeter: The Distance Around a Shape

Homeschool Pop

This animated math video introduces the concept of perimeter to elementary students using humor and clear visual examples. Starting with an analogy of a race car driving around a track, the narrator defines perimeter as "the distance around a shape." The video emphasizes that finding the perimeter is like a game where you simply need to add up the lengths of every side of a polygon. The content guides viewers through three specific practice problems involving different shapes and units of measurement. First, students calculate the perimeter of an equilateral triangle using centimeters. Next, they solve for the perimeter of a square using yards, reinforcing that squares have equal sides. Finally, the video demonstrates how to find the perimeter of a rectangle using meters, introducing the strategy of grouping numbers to make addition easier. This resource is highly valuable for introducing early geometry and measurement skills. It connects abstract math concepts to concrete visual demonstrations, making it an excellent tool for visual learners. Teachers can use this video to launch a unit on measurement, review addition strategies within a geometric context, or as a fun refresher for students struggling to differentiate perimeter from area.