Math in Our World: House Building

Kyra’s community is working together to build a two-story house.

They will cover these boards with plywood to create the first floor. Each sheet of plywood is 4 feet x 8 feet.

1. Use pictures, models, or numbers to show what is happening.
2. What do you notice? What do you wonder?
3. What mathematical questions can you ask about this situation? Answer all the questions you can!

How could you get started?

• Draw a sketch. Label the known dimensions.
• What measurements aren’t shown? What can you do to find those measurements?

Follow-up

• Show your work to someone and explain your thinking. Did they understand?
• Ask whether they have any other questions you can answer!

Challenge

Use a tape measure or ruler to measure two rooms in your home. Sketch the dimensions. Which is larger? How do you know?

Printable Version

Reference for Educators