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Shape Names

Find, name and count the sides of 2D shapes (circle, triangle, square, rectangle, pentagon, hexagon) and 3D shapes (cube, cuboid, sphere, cylinder, cone, pyramid). Shapes are sometimes turned, so pupils learn that a tilted square is still a square. When counting sides, the sides are numbered for them after a try.

For EYFS–KS2. About 5 minutes. Number & thinking. Low sensory, works without sound.

What pupils practise

• Name common 2D and 3D shapes
• Know a shape is the same shape when it is turned
• Count the sides of 2D shapes
• Use shape words in everyday talk

Tips for teachers

• Start with “find the shape”, which needs no reading.
• Hold up real 3D shapes, or find them in the classroom: a tin is a cylinder.
• Run a finger along each side while counting.
• Turn on turned shapes once pupils know the shapes sitting flat.

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