EE.1 Identify triangles, squares, and circles
Understanding Two-dimentional shapes
Flat shapes are shapes that we can draw on paper and see from one side. In First Grade, we learn about three main two-dimentional shapes: triangle, square, and circle. Each shape has special features we can look for.
- A slice of pizza shaped like a triangle.
- A window shaped like a square.
- A clock shaped like a circle.
Use real-life objects to introduce each shape. Children connect more easily when they can touch or see examples in their environment.
Identifying Shape Features
Each shape has features that make it different from the others. We can look at the number of sides and corners to tell shapes apart.
- Triangle: 3 straight sides and 3 corners.
- Square: 4 equal straight sides and 4 corners.
- Circle: 0 sides and 0 corners; perfectly round.
Count the sides and corners out loud together. This helps students match the shape name with its features.
Sorting Shapes
We can sort shapes into groups to help us understand them better. Sorting means putting shapes with the same features together.
- Put all triangles in one pile, squares in another, and circles in another pile.
- Separate paper cutouts of shapes by the number of corners.
- Group shapes by color only after grouping by shape type.
Start sorting with just two shapes before adding the third. This makes it easier for students to see differences.
Comparing Shapes
Comparing shapes means looking at two or more shapes to see how they are alike and how they are different. This helps students understand shapes more deeply.
- See that a square and triangle both have straight sides, but a circle does not.
- Notice that a triangle has fewer corners than a square.
- See that a circle is round, but a triangle and square have corners.
Encourage students to explain their thinking using full sentences, such as “A triangle has three sides, but a square has four.”
Using Shape Knowledge
Knowing about shapes helps us describe the world and solve problems. We use shape knowledge in art, building, and everyday choices.
- Choosing the right shape to fit into a puzzle.
- Using a square block to build a stable tower.
- Drawing a circle for a face in a picture.
Encourage students to use shape names often in conversation, such as “I see a circle” or “This block is a square.”