Students will use the inverse relationship between multiplication and division to complete an area formula in a real-world situation. Use this lesson on its own or as support for the lesson The Case of the Missing Rectangle Side.

Students will use their hands to mold clay into shapes, then divide those shapes into equal and unequal quarters.

Allow your students to explore the pros and cons of different strategies used to find the area of rectangles. Use this as a stand alone lesson or as a pre-lesson for the Multiplication and Area in the Community Garden lesson.