Math Unit 3

Shapes build the foundation for students to learn about geometry, physics and calculus. It is important for children to learn to both recognize and identify a variety of shapes. They also need to be able to describe the attributes of shapes — that is a square, it has four sides or that triangle has three points. 

Examples:

1. goes on shape hunt in classroom and finds a three-dimensional shape that matches the two-dimensional shape the teacher showed

2. looks at globe in the room and states it is a circle because it is round and has no edges

3. plays shape lotto

4. identifies shape of object in feely box

5. plays shape games on computer

Looking at shapes and combining shapes to make new shapes builds spatial relationships. Pattern blocks are useful tools in teaching young children skills in combining and separating shapes. 

Examples:

1. places two triangular pattern blocks together to make a square

2. creates animal using tangram blocks

3. uses flannel board shape pieces to make new shapes

4. puts together two triangle sandwich pieces to make a square sandwich

5. uses clay and play dough to create new shapes

6. uses Tinker Toys to create new shapes

7. folds and cuts paper to create new shapes