2nd Grade · Geometry
2.G.A.2: Partition a rectangle into rows and columns of same-size squares
2.G.A.2 is a 2nd grade Common Core math standard in Geometry. Here’s what it really covers, and how you can help your students learn it.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
The standard
Partition a rectangle into rows and columns of same-size squares and count to find the total number of them.
In plain words
Partition a rectangle into rows and columns of same-size squares.
Sample questions from student practice
These questions from Bobby's Math Club are the kinds of questions your students will see. You can try answering them to see what a student might see.
Question 1 of 3
How many squares are in each row of this rectangle?
- 12
- 6
- 2
Where students can get stuck
- Drawing squares of different sizes, or rows with different numbers of squares, so the grid is not truly equal.
- Leaving gaps or overlaps when covering a rectangle with tiles, then counting as if it were covered exactly.
- Counting squares in no particular order, skipping some and counting others twice, instead of going row by row.
Effective teaching strategies
- Have students cover a rectangle with same-size square tiles, leaving no gaps and no overlaps, and check each tile against its neighbors before counting.
- Have students use a ruler to draw a 3-inch by 4-inch rectangle on plain paper, mark every inch along its sides, and join the marks into 3 rows of 4 equal squares, then explain why the rows match.
- Model counting a tiled rectangle row by row, touching each row and adding equal rows, such as 5, 10, 15 for 3 rows of 5.
Units that teach this standard
Find where 2.G.A.2 lands in the program you teach. Each unit has a guide written for families. Unit names and order vary between editions and districts, so your school’s own materials have the exact sequence.
enVision Mathematics
Eureka Math²
Everyday Mathematics
i-Ready Classroom Mathematics
Illustrative Mathematics
Math Expressions
Reveal Math
Don’t see your curriculum? Contact Bobby and we’ll see if we can help!
Share it with families
Families can read Splitting a rectangle into rows of squares for a plain-language look at this skill, with three questions to try together and ideas for helping at home.
Help every student practice geometry at home
In Bobby's Math Club, students practice at just the right level, with a hint when they need one, a clear explanation after every question, and kid-friendly videos. Unlimited practice is free for every family.
See how it works for teachers
Written by Robert “Bobby” Barnett
Bobby is an award-winning math teacher, the author of Meet Every Learner’s Needs, and the father of two elementary-school math learners. He uses Bobby’s Math Club with his own kids a few times every week. Learn more or contact Bobby.