Calculating the Perimeter of Squares, Rectangles, and Irregular Shapes

MatholiaChannel

This educational video serves as a clear, step-by-step introduction to the concept of perimeter for elementary mathematics students. Through three distinct examples, the narrator demonstrates how to calculate the total distance around a two-dimensional shape by summing the lengths of its sides. The video progresses from simple regular shapes to more complex irregular figures, using grid overlays to visually reinforce the concept of measurement. The content covers calculating the perimeter of a square, a rectangle, and an irregular rectilinear polygon (L-shaped figure). Key themes include defining perimeter as a continuous line around a figure, identifying side lengths using centimeters as the unit of measurement, and using addition to find the total perimeter. The visual presentation highlights each side as it is counted, helping students track which parts of the shape contribute to the total. For educators, this video is an excellent instructional tool for introducing geometry and measurement units. It provides a visual bridge between counting grid squares and using abstract side lengths to solve problems. Teachers can use this resource to support lessons on geometry standards, reinforce addition skills in a practical context, and help students transition from measuring regular polygons to solving for the perimeter of composite shapes.