MA 8.05Naming Solid (3D) Shapes in the Environment
The child names the cube, sphere, cylinder, and cone, tells solid from flat shapes, and finds solid shapes in everyday objects.
Age 4½Work 5 of 6 in Data and Geometry
Presentation
- 1
Remind the child of the Geometric Solids they know.
- 2
Hold up the cube: 'This is a cube. It is solid; I can hold it.' Compare it with a flat square cut-out.
- 3
Introduce the sphere, cylinder, and cone the same way.
- 4
Three-period lesson with three solids at a time.
- 5
Roll, stack, and slide each solid and describe what it can do.
- 6
The child matches everyday objects to the solid with the same shape.
- 7
The child sorts a mix of flat and solid shapes into two groups.
Extensions, easiest to hardest
- Find solid shapes in the room and record them.
- Trace the faces of solids to find the flat shapes on them.
- Build with blocks and name the shapes used.
Control of error
Name cards picture each solid; matching objects must roll, stack, or slide the same way as the solid.
Ready to move on when the child…
- Names cube, sphere, cylinder, and cone
- Sorts shapes into flat and solid
- Matches everyday objects to solid shapes
Guide note
The Sensorial Geometric Solids are the indirect preparation.