Make area and perimeter come to life with this engaging 3rd grade math project-based learning activity! In this fun spring math activity, students design a bunny enclosure using a given perimeter and calculate the area while showing their thinking. This hands-on area and perimeter project helps students apply math skills in a meaningful, real-world way while staying highly engaged.

Perfect for third grade math, this resource combines problem solving, creativity, and critical thinking into one low-prep activity your students will LOVE!

🐰 ABOUT THIS RESOURCE

In this project, students become bunny owners! They must design a safe and spacious enclosure for their bunny by using their knowledge of perimeter and area.

Students will:

• Determine side lengths using a given perimeter
• Calculate area using multiplication
• Represent their thinking using models and equations
• Design and decorate their bunny’s home
• (Optional) Create a Bunny Mansion using composite figures
  

📦 WHAT’S INCLUDED

✔ Teacher directions
✔ Student introduction and Directions Page with Checklist
✔ 2 levels of recording sheets (on-level, challenge)
✔ Area model & distributive property page
✔ Composite figure (Bunny Mansion) extension
✔ Bunny enclosure design pages (grid + open)
✔ Bunny adoption certificates 🐰
✔ Bunny clipart for student use
✔ Student reflection page
✔ 2 rubrics (standard + challenge)

🎯 STANDARDS ALIGNMENT

Aligned to:

CCSS 3.MD.C.7

• Relate area to multiplication and addition
• Use area models and decomposition
  

CCSS 3.MD.C.8

• Solve real-world problems involving perimeter
• Find unknown side lengths

🧠 SKILLS COVERED

• Area of rectangles
• Perimeter of figures
• Multiplication strategies
• Distributive property (intro)
• Decomposing shapes
• Mathematical reasoning & explanation
  

🛠 HOW TO USE

This resource is flexible and can be used for:

✔ Whole group instruction
✔ Math centers
✔ Partner work
✔ Small groups
✔ End-of-unit review
✔ Performance-based assessment

💡 Suggested timeline: 1–2 class periods

💡 WHY TEACHERS LOVE THIS

❤️ Highly engaging and student-centered
❤️ Differentiated for multiple levels
❤️ Combines math + creativity
❤️ Low prep and easy to implement
❤️ Perfect for spring or anytime of year

✨ PERFECT FOR

• 3rd Grade Math
• Area & Perimeter Units
• Project-Based Learning
• Spring Activities
• Math Centers
• Hands-On Learning