Exploring surface area of a cylinder - I chose 3 different cylinders for Nicky. The area of a cylinder (label on a can) is the lateral area of the cylinder. Cover the sides of the cans with paper without overlapping. Measure the length and width of the paper, complete a chart with the measurements of each cylinder. Measure the diameter of each can and record on the chart. Calculate the circumference of each can. How is the circumference related to the length? Explore together and come up with the formula for the surface area of a cylinder. This was a good hands-on activity for Nicky. It keeps him involved and focused. He did very well on this activity and was able to calculate the area of the cylinders with some help. We also reviewed long division at the end of the class. He struggles with long division and likes to practice so he can get better.