Year 2 - Maths
Discuss and compare 3D shapes
Shape: discuss and compare 2D and 3D shapes
Study Hub
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 discuss and compare the properties of 3D shapes.
Key Notes
- 3D shapes can be discussed and compared by their properties.
- The properties of 3D shapes are the faces, edges and vertices.
- 3D shapes can be compared using informal language such as taller, shorter, wider, narrower, smaller and larger.
Vocabulary To Learn
- Compare: You compare to find out what is the same and what is different.
- Faces: The flat 2D surfaces of a 3D shape.
- Vertices: The corners of a shape where two or more edges meet.
- Edges: The straight lines where two faces of a 3D shape meet.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Children may think that the tallest shape is always the largest.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.
3D shapes can be discussed and compared by their properties. The properties of 3D shapes are the faces, edges and vertices.
2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Compare'
You compare to find out what is the same and what is different. 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 think that the tallest shape is always the largest. Correction: Explore lots of different 3D shapes of different proportions. Allow children to handle and rotate the shapes. Use hollow shapes and explore filling them with water or sand to help children see that the largest shape is the one that can hold the most.
More Lessons In This Unit
- Describe and name 3D shapes Study Guide
- Describe and name 3d shapes – prisms and pyramids 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 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
Browse all guides in the Year 2 Maths guide library.