Students may find it helpful to pin the string onto corkboard to fix the shape, then transfer the dimensions to a rendition on graph paper. A variety of ways can be used to determine area including use of formulas or counting the number of graph squares enclosed in the shape. Some measuring and drawing tools, such as compasses, protractors, rulers, and t-squares should be available, but they may not be needed. When the groups are finished they can record their data on a class chart that allows comparison across the groups. Particular attention to the number of sides and the area dimensions for the various figures will allow a pattern to emerge.
Discussion can focus on the comparison of data from the various figures.