Year 4 Maths Lesson Plan: Area of Rectangles
Free Year 4 maths lesson plan on finding the area of rectangles by counting squares and by multiplying length × width. With differentiation.
Learning objective
I can find the area of rectangles by counting squares and by multiplying length and width.
Key vocabulary
- area
- square units
- length
- width
- rectangle
Curriculum: National Curriculum 2014: Year 4 Mathematics — Measurement
Starter (5-10 minutes)
Show two rectangles drawn on squared paper without labels. Pupils estimate which has the larger area and check by counting squares. Reveal that today they will learn a faster method.
Main activity (35-40 minutes)
Model finding area by counting squares for a 3 × 4 rectangle (12 square units). Lead pupils to notice that the answer is the product of the two side lengths. Establish the formula: area = length × width. Pupils calculate the area of six rectangles using length × width, then solve a real-world problem: 'A classroom rug is 4 m by 5 m. What is its area?' Move to compound shapes — find the area of an L-shape by partitioning into two rectangles.
Differentiation
Support
Find area by counting squares only. Use squared paper for every example to keep the visual scaffold.
Core
Calculate the area of rectangles using length × width. Apply to simple compound shapes.
Stretch
Find missing dimensions when given area (e.g. a rectangle has area 36 cm² and a length of 9 cm — what is the width?) and apply to multi-step problems.
Plenary (5-10 minutes)
Show two rectangles with different dimensions but equal area (e.g. 4 × 6 and 3 × 8 — both 24 square units). Pupils explain in pairs how shapes with different proportions can have the same area.
Common misconception to watch for
Pupils often confuse area with perimeter, especially when both are introduced near each other. Use deliberate examples that contrast: same perimeter, different area; same area, different perimeter.
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Generate this lesson freeFrequently asked questions
What is the learning objective of this Year 4 maths lesson?
I can find the area of rectangles by counting squares and by multiplying length and width.
How long does this area of rectangles by counting squares lesson take?
60 minutes, structured into a starter, main activity, and plenary. Differentiation guidance is included for support, core, and stretch learners.
Is this lesson plan free to download?
Yes. The full plan is free to read and adapt. You can also generate an editable, fully resourced version in TAyumira's free lesson planner — no credit card required.
Does this lesson cover the UK National Curriculum?
Yes. This plan aligns with National Curriculum 2014: Year 4 Mathematics — Measurement.
Can I edit this lesson plan for my class?
Yes. Use this as a template and adapt to your class context. To save typing time, generate a customised version in TAyumira's free planner — your class size, ability range, and lesson length are factored in automatically.