Understanding the Mathematics Names of Shapes

Introduction

Everything around us has a shape; be it a water bottle, book, or ball. Similar to our day-to-day lives, there are different shapes in mathematics that the kids must be aware of. The early childhood and education about understanding the mathematics names of shapes builds a foundational base for the child.

Even the best international schools ensure an early introduction of different shapes to the kids. Not only it helps them in their academic performance, but it also boosts confidence in students to organise visual information. Kids can easily identify the different objects, letters, numbers, etc. by their shapes.

Basic 2D Shapes and Their Names

Usually, the first introduction of kids with shapes is by using the basic 2D shapes. The understanding of these shapes helps the kids to comfortably understand the complex shapes.

1. Circle:

It is a round shape made with several points, each located equidistant from the centre. Its key properties generally include its radius and diameter. Also, introduce an oval shape to the kid that looks like an egg or a compressed circle to differentiate between similar-looking shapes.

2. Square:

This is the shape made of 4 equal sides and 4 right angles with properties of equal parameters on all sides.

3. Rectangle:

Similar to a square, let your child understand a rectangle, a shape with equal opposite sides and 4 right angles.

4. Triangle:

It is a closed shape made with 3 sides and 3 angles which are less than 90 degrees. The shape of the triangle can vary based on the length of the sides and angles.

3D Shapes and Their Names

After the understanding of the 2D shapes, the IB PYP curriculum also includes some 3D shapes and their understanding.

1. Cube:

This is a 3D square version with 6 equal square faces.

2. Cylinder:

It is the shape made by connecting 2 parallel circular bases by a curved surface.

3. Cone:

It is a shape with a circular base that smoothly tapers to a pointed end, similar to ice cream cones.

4. Sphere:

With unique volume and surface area properties, a sphere is a perfectly round 3D shape.

Complex Shapes

Many leading IB board schools also introduce some complex shapes to the kids as a part of their learning journey.

1. Irregular Polygon:

It is a shape that does not equal sides and angles.

2. Polyhedron:

It is a 3D shape with flat polygonal faces.

3. Torus:

It is a shape similar to the shape of a doughnut.

Importance of Learning Shapes Names

So, why is it important for kids to learn these shapes names? Will it be relevant for their future understanding of the detailed IB middle years program? Honestly, yes!

It is important for kids to learn and understand the shapes names to ensure their smooth educational journey. Let us explore the various reasons supporting the importance of learning shape names.

1. Understanding Visual Information:

Learning the shapes names helps the kids to become sound for identifying, understanding, and processing visual information. Visualising the information in their minds also enhances their creativity and imagination.

2. Communication:

When kids are introduced to learning shapes and names during the early years of their learning, it improves their communication skills. Kids also feel confident about what they are communicating about to ensure better engagement.

3. Real-World Applications:

Learning and understanding the shapes names isn’t just limited to their academic performance. But kids can connect the shape’s names with real-world applications to make more informed decisions, boosting their critical thinking skills.

4. Foundation of Advanced Understanding:

Learning the shapes names also serves as a foundational base for a better understanding of the advanced concepts. Kids with a detailed understanding of the names of the basic shapes are likely to be focused on performing better with advanced concepts.

5. Improved Focus and Concentration:

Introducing kids with similar and different shapes helps in enhancing their focus and concentration. They develop the habit of observing details which helps them to learn advanced concepts with better clarity.

Fun Learning with Shapes

Learning shapes names shouldn’t be made boring for kids using traditional teaching methods. Rather, use some fun learning with shapes to boost the engagement of kids while learning and understanding.

There are many fun learning activities in the IB syllabus that make learning shape names fun and interesting.

1. Shape Art:

Encourage the kids to use their imagination to create a distinguished shape using different shapes they know. They can use colours, designs, and art effects to reflect their creative expression while understanding the use of different shapes.

2. Shape Sorting Games:

Use different physical objects of different shapes and let the kids sort them based on their understanding. This is an interactive way that helps the kids to identify and classify similar shapes for use.

3. Shape Hunt:

The top IB curriculum schools in Bangalore often try engaging in shape hunt activities to motivate kids to identify and match specific shapes. Besides identifying shapes, they also explore the surroundings to make real-world connections.

4. Building Projects:

Use building blocks to create 3D shapes. This gives hands-on experience to the kids to identify the shapes and understand their properties. Kids also learn about the practical use of different shapes.

5. Interactive Technology:

Using advanced technology like online apps and games helps the kids to learn and understand different shapes with focus. Introduce online interactive sessions and puzzles to the kids to make learning fun and interesting.

Interactive Activities for Learning Shapes

The interactive activities not only make the IB diploma programme subjects interesting but also the basic concepts like learning shapes. These activities promote engagement and collaboration while learning, adding to the confidence of the kids.

1. Hopping on Shape Name:

Simply draw some shapes on the floor. Now, say the shape name turn by turn and ask the kids to hop/jump on the same shape. This will promote their physical fitness along with understanding the different shapes by names and visual appearance.

2. Make Shapes with LEGO Bricks:

Encourage kids to make different shapes using LEGO bricks. This fun activity not only keeps them engaged but also boosts their critical and analytical thinking skills. It helps the kids to think logically about the different shapes.

3. Cut Papers into Shapes:

Give a piece of paper to the kids and ask them to cut them into different shapes. This fun activity will enable kids to be creative while coordinating their thoughts and actions. However, ensure the safety of kids while using scissors or cutters for cutting papers into shapes.

4. Shape Relay Race:

Set up different stations where students should identify and draw specific shapes before moving to the next station. This activity promotes physical fitness, teamwork, and collaborative learning.

5. Group Discussions:

Last but not least; use group discussions where every student can share their real-time experience with different shapes. This encourages critical thinking in students.

Conclusion

Understanding the mathematics names of shapes during early childhood and education introduces kids to the fundamental aspects of mathematics. Besides fostering a love for learning, it ensures that kids engage in meaningful learning. Along with improving their academic performance, it also helps the kids to develop essential skills with endless opportunities for creativity.

As one of the best international schools in Bangalore, OWIS helps the kids to improve their creativity by learning about the different shapes names. We use various engaging activities and fun games to make children familiar with the basic shapes names during their early years of learning.