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K–12 teaching and learning · from the UNC School of Education

Finding surface area and volume

http://illuminations.nctm.org/LessonDetail.aspx?ID=L609

A lesson plan for grades 7–8 Mathematics

Provider: National Council of Teachers of Mathematics


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Using the isometric drawing tool, students build three-dimensional figures and find the surface area and volume of each figure. Illuminations provides a link to the isometric drawing tool, overhead transparencies, and detailed instructions for completing the lesson. After reviewing volume and surface area of three-dimensional figures, students discuss possible definitions of each. Then, using the isometric drawing tool, students build a specific figure and determine its volume and surface area. Students create a number of shapes from various cubes and determine volume and surface area.

Students will:

  • Build three dimensional block figures.
  • Find the surface areas of these figures.
  • Find the volumes of these figures.

NCTM Standards and Expectations:

  • Understand relationships among the angles, side lengths, perimeters, areas, and volumes of similar objects.
  • Draw geometric objects with specified properties, such as side lengths or angle measures.
  • Use two-dimensional representations of three-dimensional objects to visualize and solve problems such as those involving surface area and volume.

North Carolina Curriculum Alignment

Mathematics (2004)

Grade 7

  • Goal 3: Geometry - The learner will understand and use properties and relationships in geometry.
    • Objective 3.01: Using three-dimensional figures:
      • Identify, describe, and draw from various views (top, side, front, corner).
      • Build from various views.
      • Describe cross-sectional views.

Grade 8

  • Goal 3: Geometry - The learner will understand and use properties and relationships in geometry.