Year 4 area comparison, over three pages. Page 1 shows six pairs of shapes on centimetre grids, including two rectangles, a square against a thin strip and a T shape against a tall rectangle. Pupils count the squares to write Area A and Area B, then write A, B or equal for the bigger shape. On page 2 they say whether two shapes with the same area can look different, then draw two shapes of 8 squares. The key covers all six pairs. It follows England National Curriculum area.
Measurement
“find the area of rectilinear shapes by counting squares”
Each of the six pairs needs two counts, from 7 and 8 squares in pair 6 up to 16 and 15 in pair 5.
Measurement
“estimate, compare and calculate different measures, including money in pounds and pence”
Pupils decide which area is bigger or write equal for each pair, then reason about shapes that look different but cover the same space.
Six boxes, each with shapes A and B on a grid and lines for both areas and the bigger shape. Pairs 1 and 3 are equal at 12 and 9 squares. Pair 5 is a 4 by 4 square against a 5 by 3 rectangle.
One question with two parts. Pupils explain whether two shapes with the same area can look different, then draw two different shapes of 8 squares on an empty grid.
The areas for all six pairs, and sample shapes for question 7, such as a 4 by 2 rectangle and an 8 by 1 strip.
Predict first
Ask pupils to circle the shape they think is bigger before they count. Pair 3, the square and the thin strip, often surprises them.
Drawing task
Let pupils swap sheets after question 7 and check each other's shapes for exactly 8 squares.
Mixed-ability groups
Pupils who need support can start with pairs 1, 3 and 5, which are all rectangles. Pairs 2, 4 and 6 each include a T, U or C shape.
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