EE.3 Identify rectangles, pentagons, and hexagons
Understanding Two-dimentional shapes
Flat shapes are shapes we can draw on a flat surface and see from one side. In First Grade, we learn to identify shapes by looking at their sides and corners. In this topic, we will focus on three shapes: rectangle, pentagon, and hexagon.
- A book cover shaped like a rectangle.
- A school sign shaped like a pentagon.
- A honeycomb cell shaped like a hexagon.
Show real-life items with these shapes to help students connect the names to objects they know.
Identifying Shape Features
We can tell shapes apart by counting their sides and corners. The number of sides and corners is the most important clue when naming a shape.
- Rectangle: 4 straight sides, opposite sides are equal, 4 corners.
- Pentagon: 5 straight sides, 5 corners.
- Hexagon: 6 straight sides, 6 corners.
Have students trace the sides with their finger while counting each side and corner out loud.
Sorting Shapes
Sorting shapes means putting them into groups based on their features. This helps students see patterns and remember differences.
- Group all rectangles in one set, pentagons in another, and hexagons in another set.
- Sort cutout shapes by the number of corners.
- After sorting by shape, try sorting by color as a secondary step.
Begin with two shape types before adding the third to avoid overwhelming students.
Comparing Shapes
Comparing shapes helps us understand how shapes are alike and different. Students learn that some shapes share features, while others have unique characteristics.
- Both a rectangle and pentagon have straight sides, but a pentagon has more sides.
- A hexagon has 2 more sides than a pentagon.
- A rectangle has 4 corners, but a hexagon has 6 corners.
Encourage students to use complete sentences, such as “A pentagon has five sides, but a rectangle has four.”
Using Shape Knowledge
Knowing the names and features of shapes helps in solving problems, describing objects, and making things. Shapes are important in art, design, and everyday tasks.
- Choosing a rectangle paper to make a greeting card.
- Finding a pentagon road sign while walking to school.
- Recognizing a hexagon tile on a bathroom floor.
Have students point out shapes they see and name them during class activities or on walks.