Solving space word problems
Word problems about shapes ask you to find the perimeter, the area or the volume of something real, like a garden, a floor or a box. The tricky part is knowing which one the question wants. Read carefully, picture the shape, and pick the right formula. Use these 4 steps every time.
Key idea / 4 steps
1) Understand — what is asked? 2) Plan — which formula? 3) Solve — do the calculation with the right unit. 4) Check — is the answer sensible?
Choosing the tool
Fencing or walking around = perimeter (cm, m). Covering a floor or tiling = area (cm², m²). Filling a box or tank = volume (cm³, m³).
Worked example
A rectangular garden is 9 m long and 4 m wide. How much fence goes around it?
This asks for perimeter.
Perimeter = 2 × (9 + 4) = 2 × 13 = 26 m of fence.
Remember
- Fence / border → perimeter.
- Cover / carpet / tiles → area.
- Fill / hold water → volume.