As you work on this activity, notice the connections to prior learning, to other mathematical topics, and to areas outside both mathematics and school. Think about how you would help your students recognize these connections, and jot down phrases that will help you remember your ideas.
In a classroom, a number of gift boxes will be constructed out of cardboard or thick paper and their outsides covered with decorative paper. The group leader needs a careful estimate of the number of square inches of decorative paper needed for one box so that paper can be purchased for all the boxes.
After you've finished working on this problem, reflect on the following questions:
What prior experiences might you discuss with students before beginning this lesson?
Which connections did you identify that you'd want to help your students understand?
How could you further extend this problem for students who successfully complete it?
