Measurement (area & perimeter): Rhino Sanctuary
The Problem
A new rhino sanctuary has just been built for two rhinos. Their names are Ipuh and Laksari. Inside the sanctuary, they will be able to forage for food and wallow in mud baths. They will be safe from poachers due to an electrified perimeter fence that runs all the way around it.
From the clue card descriptions of the sanctuary (see below), can you work with a partner to calculate the length of each side of the perimeter fence?
Is there more than one solution to this problem? How do you know?
Did you know?
The name rhinoceros means ‘nose horn.’ It comes from two ancient Greek words – rhino (nose) and ceros (horn). Some people wrongly believe that crushed rhino horn can cure a variety of illnesses. Sadly, it is for this reason that so many rhinos have been killed by poachers.
Visualising the Problem and Getting Started
Rui tried to make a sketch of the perimeter fence and sanctuary from the clue cards. It looked liked this:
Have a look at Rui’s sketch. What do you notice? Talk to a partner about your observations.