Solve each problem. Use the strategy act it out to solve. Write the answer showing steps and in a complete sentence. Make sure a first grader can understand your steps.
1. The Wilsons have 12 yards of fence for their garden. What are the length and width of the garden if it has the greatest possible area?
To find the dimensions of the garden with the greatest possible area, we can act it out by drawing rectangles with different lengths and widths using the 12 yards of fence.
1. Start with a square shape. If each side is 3 yards, the perimeter would be 12 yards. The area would be 3 yards x 3 yards = 9 square yards.
2. Then, try a rectangle shape. If one side is 4 yards and the other side is 2 yards, the perimeter would also be 12 yards. The area would be 4 yards x 2 yards = 8 square yards.
3. Lastly, try another rectangle shape. If one side is 6 yards and the other side is 3 yards, the perimeter would still be 12 yards. The area would be 6 yards x 3 yards = 18 square yards.
Therefore, the dimensions of the garden with the greatest possible area is 6 yards by 3 yards.