Interactive Perimeter Puzzle

Make Perimeter Calculations Less Puzzling

If things are shaping up as they should in your maths lessons, your students are on to calculating the area and perimeter of 2Dshapes.

To play, students will calculate the perimeter of each shape on the board. Then, they’ll find the puzzle piece with the matching measurement, looking carefully at each label to identify centimetres, units, millimetres, etc. 

This activity can be played during independent work time, in a maths group, or as a guided maths activity by calling students up to the board to complete one piece at a time.  

By completing this activity, students show they can use the correct mathematical formula to find the perimeter of a shape with whole number dimensions.

Perimeter Game Scaffolding + Extension Tips 

Provide students with visual references to help them solve perimeter calculations independently, such as a poster or anchor chart. 

There are two ways to differentiate this game for students who need support or more of a challenge: 

Below-Level

Print the game board for students to find the perimeters first. They can do this independently or with a partner. Once students calculate the perimeters, they can go back to the interactive game to move the puzzle pieces into place. This focus time allows students to write down the equation rather than rely on mental math. Students will also be able to physically mark the unit figures.

Above Level

Have students create their own perimeter puzzle to swap with a friend! Students draw a picture and overlap it with a grid (9 squares for a 3×3 grid or 16 squares for a 4×4 grid). Then, they create perimeter shape problems in the grid format, writing the answer for each problem on the corresponding picture piece. Students cut up the picture into squares and give it to a friend to try.

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Please note that this activity is an interactive PowerPoint and Google Slides resource. 

Puzzle pieces are moveable in Edit mode only (versus Presentation mode).

For a hands-on activity students can do without a computer, print the perimeter problem game board and image/answer pieces on cardstock. Keep all parts together in a folder or large envelope for easy access.