Summary

In this activity a range of 3-D shapes appear and pupils are asked to select those that meet certain criteria, for example, those shapes that are prisms. Start by exploring the shapes with the class as follows:

• What are the names of the shapes? (The name of each shape is available via a button if needed for review or introduction.)
• Review the parts of the shapes using vocabulary like base, edges, sides, vertices, faces etc.
• Encourage your class to count vertices, edges and faces.

Move on to selecting shapes meeting the criteria, with the pupils contributing the answer, using correct names and terminology.

Suitable for

Year 3

Using a non-interactive whiteboard

As above, but using the keyboard and mouse instead of a touch screen.

Prior learning required

The work follows on from their experience of 3-D shapes in earlier years.

Aims and objectives

To provide pupils with the opportunity to explore the properties of shapes and to start classifying them according to these properties.

Suggestions for group activities

Use actual 3-D solids to explore similar grouping activities. For example, ask pupils to find all the solids that have more than four faces etc. Ask pupils to set a similar activity for their peers.

Suggestions for differentiation

This activity can be used with individual pupils to provide extension or support for those needing further practice.

Further activities

Look at photos of (or actual) buildings and ask pupils to identify 3-D shapes. Pupils can use nets to make and decorate cuboids themselves.

Curriculum links

Shapes, space and measures in the National Numeracy Strategy, KS2, "properties of 3-D shapes", item 81. Also "recognise geometrical properties" of 3-D shapes, from the Welsh national curriculum for maths (p20).