Fall Fun Worksheets and Activities for 4th and 5th grade
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Fall Math Worksheets and Activities for 3rd – 5th Grade

As the leaves change, so can your math lessons! 

Fall gives us teachers the perfect opportunity to engage students with fun, fall themed math activities that build excitement for learning inside classrooms. 

Fall Fun Worksheets and Activities for 4th and 5th grade

For me seasonal math not only brings a fresh twist inside classroom for kids, but it also give me some change to use fun activities to keep my upper elementary kids engaged with unique activities that are different but perfectly with the curriculum. 

Here are some way I have found helpful to bring the spirit of autumn into my math lessons to keep students motivated and excited to learn.

Why Use Fall-Themed Math Activities?

Once the back-to-school buzz goes away, students may start to lose some of the enthusiasm they had in the first few weeks of school. 

This can be challenging to maintain that level of energy in the classroom as the routine sets in. 

And tis is where seasonal activities come in handy and exciting to keep them engaged and ansurprised to work on their task! 

Fall-themed math activities can help apture student’s attention and re-energize their will to keep their math learning moving forward.

These activities not only make lessons fun but also ensure students are still practicing critical math skills in an engaging way.

Upper Elementary Fall Math Activities you Should Try this Year:

Here are some of you can use activities to help your 3rd 4th or even 5th grade students get into the Fall spirit while practicing essential math concepts:

Fall-Themed Solve-the-Room Activities

Fall fraction and decimal operation activity 5th grade and upper elementary grades

This activity can transform your classroom into a dynamic learning environment. Students will move around the room, solving math problems with a fall spirit.

Activities like these are perfect for keeping students active while making sure they’re reviewing their key math concepts, such as Decimal and fraction operations or even math facts.

Fall Color-by-Number Worksheets

Ahhh! Who does not like some coloring to go along with their math centers and daily practice?

Color by number worksheets combine creativity with math practice to keep them on their learning journey and reduce their learning fatigue at the same time. 

Honestly this alone is like a win win situation for me. 

Every time I take out one of these Coloring sheets kids are just excited and motivated to work on them. 

What’s most important is there are jut 8 problems they need to solve instead of bajillions just to get them to the coloring part.

This is the reason why they are more motivated to work on this single page coloring math sheets.

Here is how it works: Students will solve math problems and then use their answers to complete fall-themed coloring pages. 

It’s a great activity for early finishers or as a calming task during busy classroom days which is a plus.

Fall Math Scavenger Hunt

Did you just said hunt? I think math reviews do not have to be boring? 

Using this fraction scavenger hunt activity this Fall and turn you class in to a Scavenger Hunt adventure that your kids would love to be in.

Students solve math problems while following clues around the room. It’s an engaging way to review concepts and encourage teamwork.

And the best part is, it’s self checking so less work for you but more fun for them. 

Fall Fractions and Decimal Operations – Mystery Picture Puzzle!

Tired of searching for an engaging and fun way to help your 5th-grade students master fractions and decimal operations? 

Maybe try out some mystery picture puzzle math activities.

Using the Fall Fractions and Decimal Operations Picture Puzzle is the perfect way to practice math and increase creativity to keep your students motivated and excited on learning their fractions concepts.

These puzzles gives students the opportunity to solve fractions and decimal problems while slowing revealing a fall-themed picture. 

Whether you’re looking for a way to reinforce lessons on adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing fractions and decimals or simply want to add an interactive twist to your math centers, this activity does it all!

How to Implement It

This resource is dynamic and easy to use into your classroom. You can use it as:

  • A fun, no-prep fall math center
  • A homework assignment to reinforce what was taught in class.
  • An engaging review activity before an upcoming test.
  • A small group activity for collaborative learning.

How to have Fall-Themed Math Spirit in the Classroom

Using fall-themed classroom activities and resources into your lessons is easy, and literally there are so many creative ways to do it! 

Engaging Fall addition subtraction multiplication division math powerpoint game activities for 3rd 4th and 5th grade kids

Here are a few ideas from me to get you started:

  • Create Fall-Themed Math Centers: Yup that’s the first one. You need to set up multiple fall-themed stations in your classroom where students can rotate between different activities, like the Fall Solve-the-Room or Color-by-Number sheets. This gives kids diverse options and allows students to work independently or in small groups.
  • Use for Early Finishers or Warm-Up Activities: These activities are perfect for students who finish their work early or for a quick and engaging warm-up to get everyone focused on math first thing in the morning.
  • Fall Decor for Extra Fun: This one is a must! Decorate your classroom with fall leaves, pumpkins, and other seasonal visual elements. Then, use these resources as part of a fall-themed math review or even a class competition!

By using these fun ideas, you’re not only bringing fall into the classroom but also boosting students’ enthusiasm for math.

To bring the magic of fall into your math lessons. You will be able to watch your students’ willingness to work on their classwork soar, the big idea is to use multiple Fall themed elements in your day and your kids will thank you for all that you do for them.

Ready to add some seasonal fun to your math lessons?

Check out our Fall Math Activities on my TPT store Daily Dose of Mathematics store!

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    Free Adding and Subtracting Decimals Worksheets 6th Grade

    Looking for a fun and exciting way to reinforce decimal operation to your 5th grade kids?

    Use this FREE add and subtract decimals color by number activity as an instant solution you can implement in your class right now to make it fun and engaging for you 5th or 6th grade kids learning decimals.

    Let’s break down three key teaching points from this resource and how to implement them in your classroom.

    1️⃣ Teaching Point #1: Mastering Decimal Addition & Subtraction

    How to Implement

    1. Quick Review: You can start with a 5-minute refresher on how to align decimals and borrowing/carrying when needed. Basically the stuff kids already know
    2. Think Aloud: Teach kids 1–2 problems on the board, and say out loud your thought process.
    3. Turn & Talk: Have your students explain the problem’s steps to a partner before they even start.
    4. Independent Work: Give out the Color by Number worksheet and let students solve it.
    5. Check & Reflect: Let students compare their answers with a partner before coloring.

    Practice Exercise

    Here are a few warm-up problem set you can use with your kids:

    • 3.42 + 2.58 = ?
    • 7.1 – 3.89 = ? A good one to discuss how to align decimals with 1 and 2 decimal places
    • 9.03 + 5.77 = ?

    Discuss the most common mistakes (misaligned decimals, forgetting to borrow, etc.).


    2️⃣ Teaching Point #2: Building Confidence with Self-Checking

    How to Implement

    1. Encourage Estimation: Before solving, have students round numbers and estimate to check their reasonableness.
    2. Check in Pairs: After every five problems, students compare answers before coloring.
    3. Spot the Error: If students see an unexpected color pattern, guide them to rework the problem.

    Practice Exercise

    Have students estimate first and then solve:

    • 4.92 + 3.17 (Estimate: 5 + 3)
    • 10.5 – 7.63 (Estimate: 10 – 8)
    • 6.89 + 1.56 (Estimate: 7 + 2)

    This step reinforces number sense and problem-checking habits.


    3️⃣ Teaching Point #3: Increasing Engagement with Color & Creativity

    How to Implement

    1. Make It a Challenge: Time students and see who correctly solves and colors first.
    2. Personalized Touch: Allow students to choose their own coloring shades.
    3. Create a Math Wall: Display finished work to reinforce effort and accuracy.
    4. Incorporate Tech: Have students take a photo of their work and explain their thinking via a digital tool like Flipgrid.

    Want to get your hands on this FREE decimals operation color by number?

    Sign up and get the worksheets delivered to your inbox!

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    3 Digit Subtraction and Addition Worksheets for Daily Math

    During my elementary math classroom, I like having games and activities that are not prep.

    Why? Well, because it is easier for teachers to set them up and grade, and on top of that, kids ALWAYS love it when I teach subtraction and addition using board game worksheets.

    In this blog post, I’m going to share 3 of the best resources you can use in your classroom to teach 3 digit subtraction and addition using worksheets.

    First of all, teaching 3 digit subtraction and addition with and without regrouping isn’t just necessary at the start of the year. In fact, it’s better to set up the material as a year-long series resource that you just pull up and instantly use to teach.

    Honestly, it can be hard to make something that you can use all year long. At least, it was always hard for me to decide what to use for practicing this basic addition and subtraction skill.

    To overcome this problem, I created several 3 digit subtraction and addition worksheets that I keep with me whenever I need them during class.

    Here are a few of them that you can use to make your life easier.

    3 Digit Subtraction and Addition Worksheets

    1. 3 Digit Subtraction and Addition Worksheets

    As the name suggests, addition and subtraction with regrouping worksheets are best used when we are introducing these concepts to kids.

    What you want at this stage is to allow your students to practice the skills they have learned without any distractions.

    Once they have practiced enough, you can then use advanced pedagogical activities to reinforce their practice, like printable math board games, digital activities, or even coloring math worksheets.

    This excites the students to work on their basics and get their practice done correctly.

    Looking for some premade worksheet suggestions?

    Check these 3 digit subtraction and addition worksheets


    3 Digit Subtraction and Addition Worksheets

    2. Addition and Subtraction Riddles Activity Worksheets

    Honestly, who does not love to solve riddles? In my classroom, I always find my kids excited to practice math when done with riddles worksheets.

    This activity is the single most used activity throughout my addition and subtraction practice class. Riddles not only keep them engaged in working on math but also keep them excited to know what the answer to the secret question is.

    So if you want to make your kids practice 3 digit addition and subtraction, use riddle activities to keep them excited about working on their daily practice.

    Another option would be to use it as a center activity or homework to reinforce what they have learned.

    Want to check out how I use Riddles for multi digit addition and subtraction, click here.


    3. Solve The Room 3 Digit Addition and Subtraction Activity

    5th grade solve the room activities

    Let’s face it math is a tough subject for some kids.

    And whether you are new to teaching or you have been teaching for quite some time.

    It can get frustrating to keep your kids engaged and excited to try new concepts. It can feel boring to go through the same activities day in and day out. But the good news is that it does not have to be!

    If you want to make this tedious task more fun and engaging for your kids, WHY not incorporate the Solve the Room activity in your weekly math activities list?

    Solve the Room is a simple yet effective way to help your kids get up and moving while solving math inside the class.

    It is not only fun and highly active, but can also be used to assess your student’s individual understanding of the concepts.


    Here is how it works:

    You place the question task cards at different stations inside your classroom. Give each of your students a recording sheet that they can use to solve and write their answers.

    Students hop from one station to the other, solving the problems. If they get stuck, they can come to me for some help.

    You can use Solve the Room activities for every 5th grade math topic. I use it for almost every 5th grade math topic, like Addition and Subtraction of Whole numbers, Fractions, and Decimals.

    But just in case you do not want to make these activities yourself and want to save your valuable time, then I have one inside my TPT store for you to check out. Click here to check! 

    Want a free adding and subtracting decimals activity check this post!

    Join in to get special FREEBIES and Insider’s FUN!

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    Fraction Operations: 3 Creative Ways on how to make Kids Master Fractions

    Fractions operations are hard concepts to learn for many kids. Most of my 5th grade students struggle to understand even the basis of what a fraction or a number in a/b form actually means.

    This idea is not just a problem for upper elementary students but for middle school kids too. Just ask your middle school students to cut a circle in 6 parts and see the results they produce.

    It might look something like this:

    fraction operation | adding and subtracting fractions

    Now the problem is not that these kids do not know how to add subtract multiply or divide fractions. Because all these fraction operations can be understood and practice by simply repeating the exact same steps they need to perform to get the answer.

    Instead the problem is their ability to apply and analyze conceptual parts of fractions, so instead of focusing on the simplification side of the concept what you actually need to focus more on is the conceptual side of the topic that is its application and making kids able to analyze and evaluate their learning.

    To understand it better lets discuss why our students struggle to grasp this important concept and how we can help them.

    Why students struggle with fraction operations

    Many students struggle with the conceptual understanding and just learn to find answers using “tricks” like keep, change, flip for fraction division. These kids are the ones that when asked to solve a real life problem like this one:

    Sara has 3/4 of a cake remaining , and she wants to share it equally among herself and her two friends. What fraction of the cake will each person get?

    Question

    are not able to make sense of it. The mere learning of short tricks can not help them master this crucial skill. What we as a teacher need to do is create a smooth and seamless integration of all the previous concepts learned with the new ideas to make it easier for kids to connect the dots.

    Students need to build upon their prior knowledge of whole numbers and their operations and get comfortable with understand what the “a and “b” in a/b form actually tells them about the problem at hand.

    Which means they not only need to know how much of something is being added (which is the numerator part of fraction) but also what is being added that is the denominator part of the fraction.

    Making them understand fractions from bottom up is the key. What does the denominator and the numerators actually tells.

    For example let’s say kids have to add 2/5 + 1/5:

    Here, the ‘2’ and ‘1’ (numerators) tell us ‘how much‘ of something we have, like two pieces of pizza. The ‘5’ (denominator) tells us into ‘how many parts‘ something is divided, like cutting a pizza into 5 slices. So, when adding 2/5 and 1/5, we’re combining parts of the same whole (like adding two slices to one slice of the same pizza, making it 3/5 of the pizza).

    Understanding both parts of a fraction helps kids grasp what they’re working with, making fractions less intimidating. Once kids know the basis they will be able to solve more complex problems on their own.

    fraction operation | adding and subtracting fractions

    Activities to make their learning addition and subtraction of fraction operations easier

    Not all kids learn the same way. Some are visual learners , some like to explore and ask questions to better understand the concept and as a teacher our job is to understand what our kids understanding is of the topic is how to get hem to become better at it. The best worksheets on addition and subtraction of fractions are the ones with real world problems or activities. Let’s learn more about this:

    1. Visual Learning Through Baking and Cooking

    Who does not like the smell of cookies baking in the oven. It turns your kitchen into a fun place to learn. Did you know that making food is a great way to understand fractions? Whether you’re measuring sugar or cutting a pizza, cooking is a yummy way to learn about parts of a whole.

    Activity to Try: Start by making a simple recipe with your child, like cookies or pizza? This gives you an opportunity and fun time to talk about how fractions are used in cooking. For example, you can ask how much is half a cup of sugar? Or how do you cut a pizza so everyone gets an equal slice? In the end, you get to enjoy a tasty snack together!

    What You’ll Learn: Cooking and baking make fractions easy to understand. It’s one thing to see numbers on paper. It’s another to see fractions come to life when you’re cooking. Seeing and touching the parts that make up a whole makes fractions clear and meaningful.

    I think cooking is not just about making food. It’s a chance to see math in action. Next time you’re in the kitchen with your kids, think of it as a chance to explore fractions. It makes learning math not just useful but also delicious. So, grab an apron, and let’s make learning fractions as easy as pie!

    2. Interactive Games and Activities

    In this modern world where technology touches almost every part of our lives, learning has changed a lot after covid. For those of us who learn best by seeing and doing, the increase in online learning platform has opened doors to new possibilities. This is especially true when it comes to understanding fractions—a topic that many find tricky.

    Digital Fraction addition and subtraction activity along with PDF worksheets: There are tons of digital activities out there designed to help with fractions. When choosing an activity, look for ones that are fun for your students and how they learn, give you feedback on how you’re doing, and let you keep track of your progress.

    A great starter can be Addition and Subtraction of fractions with unlike denominator Color by number worksheets. These aren’t your typical math activities. Instead, they turn learning fractions into an interactive fun activity, making it something your kids will enjoy a lot.

    3. Storytelling and Fraction Tales

    Using storytelling to teach kids fraction and give them a taste of how math is applied in real world is what we all should be doing in our classrooms. You can introduced a story like “The tale of a bee lost in the forest” where Queen bee goes out in the wild and is lost and its the job of the kids to bring her back to her hive and the worker bees.

    But their is a twist, your kids need to solve adding and subtraction fractions with unlike denominator problems to bring her back to her hive. This keep them engaged into meaningful learning.

    Using storytelling like the above to teach kids addition subtraction multiplication and division of fractions and mixed numbers learning more memorable and meaningful. Children are able to connect with the idea on a deeper level that makes learning more enjoyable and fun

    Additional Fun Resources

    Looking for some resources that can be used for reviewing fraction operation with 5th grade students, check out the ones I have in my TPT shop.

    Looking for some free adding and subtracting fractions practice coloring worksheets, Try the one below by signing up.

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    Fun and Engaging Digital Halloween Math Activities for 3rd 4th and 5th Grade

    Looking for some Fun and engaging Halloween math activities to keep your kids busy? Try out these “PICK A WITCH” Digital Game activities with your class and see their excitement skyrocket.

    This resource is an interactive digital game which you can use to review or assess your kids place value understanding during their centers time or as a whole class activity.

    Halloween math activities for 3rd 4th and 5th grade kids

    Here is how the Game Works:

    “PICK A WITCH” Game activity is designed to help your kids practice and review the place value of larger numbers like 6 digits in a fun and engaging way.

    The resource is a compressed file that unzips to a PowerPoint Activity. The Game activity has 12 question slides and 1 main i.e. “PICK A WITCH” slide.

    Display the main slide on the projector and divide your kids into 2 teams. Now tell them to pick a number. The number that they pick you have to click on it to display the question. Once the kids see the question he or she has to answer the question.

    Halloween math activities for 3rd 4th and 5th grade kids

    You can also award 5 score points to every right answer. Once all the questions have been answered by kids. You can add all their scores and announce which team has won.

    All the numbers from 1 to 12 on the first slide are clickable and linked to that specific question number slide. There is a Home button on every question slide to access the main Questions slide which makes it an interactive and super fun game that kids enjoy.

    The 12 questions allow you to complete the activity in one go with your class. But it only uses 6 digit numbers. You can use it for fast finishers or as centers digital activity.

    Halloween math activities for 3rd 4th and 5th grade kids

    Oh and just in case if you are looking for a fun and engaging activity to to teach decimals this week, check out Free adding and subtracting decimals activities 5th grade.

    Want more join in for some Insider Fun!


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    5 best Saint Patrick’s Day math activities for kids to try this year!

    Woohoo! Are you ready to shamROCK your math lessons this Saint Patrick’s Day? Get ready to sprinkle some leprechaun magic into your maths classroom with these 5 best Saint Patrick’s Day math activities for kids!

    We’re talking about turning your ordinary math session into a pot of gold-filled adventure, complete with colors, word searching, and plenty of math mischief. So grab your greenest gear to explore through some math-tastic fun on Saint Pattys Day!

    Saint Patrick’s Day Fractions Operations Worksheets with Word Problems

    Introducing you the blast of fun education with which your upper elementary students dive into a world where every word problem is a clue, leading them closer to uncovering the mysteries of fractions.

    Whether they’re asked to solve addition and subtraction of fractions, these worksheets will keep them engaged, challenged, and entertained throughout their math journey.

    But wait, there’s more! This worksheet pack is best equipped with so much more fun with word search and coloring opportunities. This is not only to reinforce their fraction skills but also to enhance their imagination and love for math.

    So, what are you waiting for? Grab your Saint Patricks Day math activities for 5th grade!

    Saint Patrick’s Day Multidigit Addition Subtraction Multiplication Division Coloring

    Get ready to add a splash of color to your Saint Patrick’s Day math lessons with our Saint Patrick’s Day Multidigit Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, and Division Coloring activity pack!

    Who says math has to be dull and dreary? With these vibrant worksheets, your 5th-grade students will be diving into a world of mathematical mysteries while discovering their inner artists. Making them able to solve multidigit addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division problems, means to internalize the fraction operations creatively.

    But the fun doesn’t stop there! Not only will they be honing their math skills, but they’ll also be exercising their imagination and attention to detail. With Saint Patricks day math color by number, they’ll be one step closer to discovering the secret treasures hidden within each worksheet.

    So, why settle for ordinary math practice when you can add a splash of Saint Patrick’s Day magic to your lessons? Let’s make math fun, engaging, and unforgettable with these magical worksheets!

    Saint Patrick Solve The Room Decimal Addition Subtract Multiply Divide Activity

    With Decimal Addition Subtract Multiply Divide Solve The Room Saint Patrick Day Activity, we Call all 5th-grade math detectives—it’s time to put your problem-solving skills to the test in this thrilling, shamrock-filled adventure.

    Not only will they be sharpening your decimal arithmetic skills, but they’ll also be up on their feet, moving from task card to task card like true math adventurers. It’s a dynamic, interactive way to engage with math that’ll have your students buzzing with excitement from start to finish.

    And the best part? As the students crack each code and conquer each challenge, they’ll be one step closer to the ultimate prize—a sense of accomplishment and mastery over decimals that’ll leave them feeling like true math wizards.

    So, are you ready to turn your classroom into a Saint Patrick’s Day math maze? Let’s make learning decimals an unforgettable adventure with our Decimal Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, and Division Solve The Room St. Patrick’s Day Activity!

    Decimal Addition Subtract Multiply Divide Saint Patrick Day Fun Activities

    Are you feeling excited to make the learning active and more engaging? Here’s the time when the Saint Patricks day math decimal operations worksheet comes into use!

    As the students navigate the room and solve each challenge, they’ll be engaging in active learning, moving, and collaborating with their fellow math adventurers. It’s a dynamic, hands-on approach to math that’ll have them on the edge of their seats and eager to conquer each new challenge.

    And the best part? Not only will they be honing their decimal arithmetic skills, but they’ll also be enriching themselves in the spirit of Saint. Patrick’s Day is surrounded by the magic and mystery of Irish folklore.

    So, are you ready to turn your classroom into a math-filled treasure hunt this St. Patrick’s Day? Let’s make learning decimals an adventure to remember with our Decimal Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, and Division Saint Patricks day math decimal operations worksheet!

    Saint Patrick’s Day Adding and Subtracting Fractions Word Problems

    Are you looking to make fractions more fun and engaging for your 5th-grade students this Saint Patrick’s Day? Look no further! Our worksheets are designed to turn ordinary fraction practice into an exciting adventure filled with puzzles for word problems to make students excited to search for answers for operations.

    Each worksheet is packed with word problems that will challenge your students to add and subtract fractions while unraveling the mysteries of Saint Patrick’s Day. From dividing up pots of gold to sharing lucky charms with mischievous leprechauns, every problem is a chance for your students to flex their fraction skills in a fun and meaningful way.

    But that’s not all! Our worksheets are also designed to boost critical thinking and problem-solving skills as students decipher word problems and apply their fraction knowledge to find solutions. It’s a fantastic way to reinforce math concepts while immersing your class in the magic of Saint Patrick’s Day.

    So, are you ready Saint patricks day word search activities? Let’s make adding and subtracting fractions a festive and unforgettable experience!

    And there you have it, folks—5 shamrockin’ Saint Patrick’s Day math Fraction operations activities to add a pinch of magic to your classroom festivities!

    Whether you’re counting gold coins, graphing leprechaun preferences, or solving rainbow fractions, these math-tastic adventures are sure to make your celebration unforgettable.

    Want something fun and free to use in your class check this Free Saint Patty’s day activities!

    So, don your greenest attire, grab a handful of lucky charms, and let the math mischief begin! May the luck of the Irish be with you all year round!

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    How to teach the area of composite/complex figures in an EPIC way!

    Struggling to teach the area of composite figures in a way your students actually get?

    Ever wondered that every time you feel like thinking about how to get started or how even to think about introducing the topic to your kids, frustration kicks in!

    Believe it or not, we all have been there during our first few years of teaching.

    And you’re not alone… If your kids are zoning out the second you say “area” keep reading, this post breaks it down with easy, engaging ideas that make sense (and work for all levels).

    Teach kids how to find Area of Complex or Composite Shapes  figures | middle school math lessons and activities

    Explore the Area of complex figures in an exciting way

    Let’s be real right now teaching math isn’t what it used to be. Today’s kids are growing up with TikTok-level attention spans and infinite entertainment options at their fingertips.

    That means if your area of complex shapes lessons are not engaging and exciting enough, you’ve already lost half the battle.

    Here’s the good news, you don’t need flashy tech or hours of prep work just to make the area of composite figures click for your students. You just need the right strategy.

    So how do you teach this topic in a way that’s fun, clear, and actually sticks?

    find Area of Complex or Composite Shapes lesson math middle school

    The answer: make it visual, hands-on, and connected to real life, yup, that’s right this way your students aren’t just memorizing formulas, they’re solving problems like mini math detectives on a mission hunt.

    Now the question is where do you begin?

    Start with the Basics:

    Like I said, it all starts with basics.

    And to be honest, there is no other answer to this problem other than nailing the basics!

    Here is the hard truth… if kids find the lesson interesting, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated to learn about the problem, think about it, practice it, and ultimately feel a sense of confidence in their skills.

    This is why using gamified methods of teaching math inside your classroom can be a handy tool for teaching any concept!

    Teach kids how to find Area of Complex or Composite Shapes  figures | middle school math lessons and activities

    Seeing Math Everywhere:

    Here are the steps to help kids see math everywhere in their life.

    Step 1: Help Students See Math Everywhere (Real-Life Hook)

    One of the most effective ways to introduce composite figures is by showing students where these shapes exist in their world.

    What it means is to check for there: Activate prior knowledge. Ask your students:

    • What basic shapes do you already know?
    • Can you think of any objects that are made up of more than one shape?

    Then guide them to see that a playground, a building (maybe school) floor plan, or even a weird-shaped pizza is made of multiple simple shapes.

    🟩 + 🟥 + 🟦 = Composite figure.

    Your goal here is to help them realize that composite shapes are just familiar shapes combined, nothing fancy.

    Teach kids how to find Area of Complex or Composite Shapes  figures | middle school math lessons and activities

    Step 2: Revisit the Basics with Hands-On Practice

    Before diving into composite figures, make sure your students are rock solid on calculating the area of:

    • Squares
    • Rectangles
    • Triangles

    Here is a Pro Tip: Use graph paper and have them COUNT squares to confirm what the formulas actually do. This helps your visual and tactile learners “see” the math in action.

    Step 3: Decompose a Composite Figure (using engaging activities)

    Once the basics are solid, it’s time for the real fun, breaking down a complex shape into smaller, manageable parts.

    Here is an activity you can try in your class:

    1. Show them a real-life layout — like a house blueprint or the shape of a playground.
    2. Ask them to identify the basic shapes they see.
    3. Have them outline or color-code each individual shape inside the figure.
    4. Guide them through finding the area of each part — and then adding it all together.

    Want a fun way to reinforce this practice? Try out this this area and perimeter Color by Number activity!

    Finding the Area of Composite Figures or Complex Figures (Color by Number)

    Since kids have already mastered how to calculate the area of regular shapes, it’s time to introduce them to composite figures.

    You can use any composite shape, like a park or a house layout, and ask what they see.

    Tell them to imagine the shape as a whole building made by several small ones and treat every small shape like a rectangle, square, or triangle as a room inside the building.

    Let them think about this concept for a while, and then decompose the shape into its parts and find the area of the individual basic shape.

    Finding Area of Complex Figures Piece by Piece

    Next, it’s time to decompose composite figures like literally breaking the big shape into smaller, familiar parts.

    For better understanding, it’s good to introduce a composite figure with 2 or 3 squares or rectangles and then move on to the more complex figures.

    The next step is to ask your kids how many squares or rectangles they see inside their big figures.

    Have them trace or outline each individual shape in a different color and then calculate the area of each smaller part one shape at a time.

    Pro Tip: Write the area inside each shape as they go to help them see their progress. Next step is to calculate the areas of these individual shapes.

    Since your students by now already know how to calculate the area of regular figures, it would not be a daunting task. Lastly, ask them to add all of them together to get the total area.

    Want some resources to practice the area of squares, rectangles, and triangles in an exciting way? Check out this area and perimeter Color by Number activity below.

    Area of complex figures review practice and perimeter of regular and composite figure, area and perimeter of regular shapes

    Finding the Area of Complex Figures (Trending and Most Popular)

    Now comes the fun part: tell your kids that we are calculating the area of the whole building, not just the single rooms inside.

    They also know how to calculate it by adding the areas of each smaller shape. Basically, by summing up, kids will be able to tell what the area of the complex figure is. 

    Want some fun digital and printable activities to help you with this lesson?

    Check out this exciting whole class activity: Digital game for area of composite figure that also includes printaba le worksheet for student accountability.

    Area of composite figure digital game and activity for 6th grade

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