Contextualization
Perimeter is one of the most basic and essential concepts in geometry. In essence, it is simply the sum of the lengths of all sides of a figure. However, its calculation and application have a wide range of utilities, from everyday mathematics to more complex applications such as architectural planning, engineering, and even art.
In mathematics, perimeter is of utmost importance for the understanding of more advanced concepts. It is the first step in understanding the measurements of geometric figures. Furthermore, the study of perimeter allows the development of logical-mathematical reasoning, which is fundamental for the formation of critical and autonomous students.
To understand why perimeter is so important, let's think about everyday situations. Imagine that you need to build a fence around your garden, or that you need to put a decorative ribbon around a gift. In these cases, you need to know the perimeter of your garden or the gift to calculate the amount of material you will need. Without understanding the concept of perimeter, you would have many difficulties in solving these practical problems.
There are many reliable resources that can help understand the perimeter theme. The website Nova Escola (https://novaescola.org.br/) has many didactic materials on the subject, including practical activities and detailed explanations. In addition, the YouTube channel Matemática Rio (https://www.youtube.com/user/matematicario) has many interesting and educational videos that explain the concept of perimeter in a fun and engaging way.
Practical Activity
Activity Title: "Searching the Garden"
Project Objective:
The objective of this activity is to provide a practical and fun understanding of the concept of perimeter, using concrete and playful methods. Encourage collaboration and communication among students, developing problem-solving, organization, and teamwork skills.
Project Description:
In this project, students will be divided into groups of 3 to 5 students each. They will have to design and create a "garden" (a geometric figure on cardboard or cardboard) and a "fence" (made of popsicle sticks or straws). They will have to calculate the perimeter of their "garden" to determine the amount of "fence" needed. The project involves both the physical creation of the "garden" and the "fence", as well as the mathematical part of calculating the perimeter.
Necessary Materials:
- Cardboard or cardboard
- Popsicle sticks or straws
- Ruler
- Pencil and eraser
- Glue
- Scissors
Activity Step by Step:
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Each group chooses the shape of their "garden". It can be a square, rectangle, triangle, etc. They draw the chosen figure on the cardboard or cardboard.
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Measure each side of the figure with the ruler and write down the measurements.
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Add up the measurements to calculate the perimeter of the figure.
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Now it's time to build the "fence". They use the popsicle sticks or straws to do this. They need to calculate how many sticks or straws will be needed for the perimeter they calculated.
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Glue the sticks or straws around the "garden" to form the "fence".
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In the end, each group must prepare a presentation for the class, explaining how they arrived at the perimeter calculation and how they built the "garden" and the "fence".
In addition to the practical part of the project, students must write a document in the form of a report containing:
- Introduction: Presenting the project theme, the choice of the geometric figure for the garden, and the relevance of the perimeter concept.
- Development: Detailing the process of calculating the perimeter and constructing the garden and fence. The methodology used and the results obtained should be explained.
- Conclusion: Concluding the report, students should highlight the learnings obtained and reflections on the activity.
- Bibliography: Indicating sources of research, such as books, websites, videos, etc.
The report must be submitted one week after the practical activity, allowing students enough time to write it.
