Six Discs

Show the image of the six boxes and explain that we're interested in comparing the areas of different boxes made to hold six circular discs. Ask learners to compare the areas of A and B, and allow everyone time to consider and then discuss in pairs which is bigger and why.

In discussing A and B, key ideas to consider include comparing the parts of the shapes which are the same, or comparing the size of the gaps between circles. Next, allow the class some time to discuss in pairs or small groups how to order all six shapes. Stress that the importance is not so much in the order the learners come up with but in their reasons for placing them in that order.

After allowing some time to work on estimating, suggest to the learners that some calculations may help them to put the shapes in order. Learners may decide they do not need to work out every area to be certain of the correct order - for example, if they are certain their estimate has identified the biggest or the smallest area they may choose not to calculate that one. They could then work in small groups to create a poster or presentation showing the correct order for the shapes and the justification and calculations they used to find it. The hint contains two diagrams which suggest an approach for working out the areas using trigonometry, which could be shared with the class if appropriate.

Which shape do you think has the largest area and why?

What angles can we work out? What lengths do we know?