Year 2 - Maths
Recognise and sort polygons
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 explain what a polygon is and sort polygons in different ways.
Key Notes
- A polygon has straight sides.
- The sides of a polygon meet at vertices.
- A polygon is a 2D shape.
- Polygons can be sorted in different ways.
- Properties of polygons include the number of sides and the number of vertices.
Vocabulary To Learn
- Polygon: A 2D shape made up of 3 or more straight sides.
- 2D / two dimensional: A shape with only two measurable dimensions, e.g. width and length, but no thickness.
- Sides: The outside edges of a shape.
- Vertices: A vertex is the point where two lines meet. The plural is vertices.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Some children might not count the sides or vertices accurately because they lose track of where they started counting.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.
A polygon has straight sides. The sides of a polygon meet at vertices.
2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Polygon'
A 2D shape made up of 3 or more straight sides. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.
3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.
Mistake: Some children might not count the sides or vertices accurately because they lose track of where they started counting. Correction: Ask children how they can make sure they only count each side or vertex once. Model marking each side or vertex as you count it.
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 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
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