Year 2 - Maths
Describe and name 3d shapes – prisms and pyramids
Shape: discuss and compare 2D and 3D shapes
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Study Guides
This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.
Unit Summary
In this unit pupils will learn that polygons can be described, sorted, compared and named according to the number of sides and vertices. They will describe 3D shapes, finding different ways to sort and compare them.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to recognise and name pyramids and prisms and describe their properties.
Key Notes
- A prism is a 3D shape that has identical opposite polygon faces at each end which are joined by rectangular faces.
- A pyramid is a 3D shape that has a base and an apex at the opposite end to the base.
- A prism always has two opposite, identical polygon faces. A prism can be named after its identical polygon faces.
- A pyramid has a polygon as its base, which is the face opposite the apex. A pyramid can be named after its base.
Vocabulary To Learn
- Prism: A 3D shape that has two opposite, identical polygon faces, joined by rectangular faces.
- Pyramid: A 3D shape that has a base and an apex at the opposite end to the base, joined by triangular faces.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Children may find it difficult to name the shape of the faces that cannot be seen in drawings of 3D shapes.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.
A prism is a 3D shape that has identical opposite polygon faces at each end which are joined by rectangular faces. A pyramid is a 3D shape that has a base and an apex at the opposite end to the base.
2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Prism'
A 3D shape that has two opposite, identical polygon faces, joined by rectangular faces. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.
3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.
Mistake: Children may find it difficult to name the shape of the faces that cannot be seen in drawings of 3D shapes. Correction: Provide 3D shapes for children to handle alongside the drawings. Encourage them to visualise the shape rotating to help them identify and describe each face of the shape.
More Lessons In This Unit
- Describe and name 3D shapes Study Guide
- Describe and name polygons, including triangles and quadrilaterals Study Guide
- Describe, name and sort polygons, including pentagons, hexagons and octagons Study Guide
- Discuss and compare 3D shapes Study Guide
- Discuss and compare polygons Study Guide
- Find different ways to sort 3D shapes Study Guide
- Investigate how polygons can be joined and folded to form 3D shapes Study Guide
- Lines of symmetry Study Guide
- Recognise and sort polygons Study Guide
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