Module 5 Understanding shape
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Can I use similarities and differences between shapes to sort them into sets that I can label?

Example review questions

Different shapes
  • Which of these shapes could not go into this set? Why?
    Four sided shapes and shapes that have a flat face
  • Think of another label for the set. Which shapes belong in the set now?
  • Choose two shapes from this set. How are they the same? In what ways are they different?
A cone, a cylinder and a pyramid
  • Choose two of these shapes that are the same in some way; explain why you have chosen them.
  • How is the cone different from the sphere? Different from the pyramid?
  • Which of the shapes could go into this set?
    Four sided shapes and shapes that have a flat face

Teaching guidance

This teaching guidance document suggests some of the key vocabulary, models, images and practical equipment that children should experience and be able to use. It also includes some teaching tips to provide a few starting points for ways of supporting children with this area of mathematics.

PDF file Can I use similarities and differences between shapes to sort them into sets that I can label? - teaching guidance | 40KB new window

Consolidation and practice

These resources are to support children in guided or independent work.

PDF file ITP Guide new window

SWF file Polygon ITP new window

XLS file Guess my shape spreadsheet new window

PDF file Guess my shape spreadsheet guide new window

PDF file Shape grid new window

SWF file Sorting 2-D shapes new window

XLS file Carroll diagram spreadsheet new window

PDF file Carroll diagram spreadsheet guide new window

Opportunities to use and apply

Possible contexts include:

Four multi-sided shapes in a circle
  • Finding different ways to label the same set of shapes, e.g. think of a label for this set of shapes that includes the word 'sides'. Now think of a label that uses the words 'right angle'.
  • Finding more examples that belong to a set, e.g. find other shapes that could belong in this set. Now suggest some that could not belong.
  • Handling data, e.g. sorting shapes using Carroll and Venn diagrams, starting with one criterion and then if appropriate extending this to two criteria.
    Carroll diagram

Confirming learning

Ask probing questions such as:

  • Which shape is the odd one out? Why?
    A cone, a cylinder and a pyramid
  • Choose some shapes that could go together in a set. What label would you give the set? What label could you give to all the shapes that don't belong in your set? Is there any other way you could label your set?
  • Kara has made a mistake sorting these shapes. Can you spot her mistake?
    Two columns of different shapes