Geometry and Spatial Sense, Grades 4 to 6 - EduGains

Begin by showing students a rectangular prism. Ask them to describe the three-dimensional
figure in such a way that someone who has never seen one (e.g., a reading buddy, younger
sibling) would know what it looks like. Encourage students to use appropriate mathematical
language and to describe the geometric properties of the prism.
Distribute to each student a copy of 3D4.BLM4: Teach an Alien. Have students select one net
from the five shown and identify the three-dimensional figure that can be constructed from that
net. Then, have students write a description of the figure for an alien from another planet who
has never seen that figure before. Student pairs will exchange descriptions and try to build the
figure from each other’s descriptions.
LEARNING CONNECTION 3
Cube Structures
MATERIALS
• overhead projector
• transparency of 3D4.BLM5: 6-Cube Rectangular Prism
• interlocking cubes (8 per student)
• 3D4.BLM6: More Rectangular Prisms (1 per pair of students)
Begin by showing students the first prism, 3D4.BLM5: 6-Cube Rectangular Prism, on the overhead.
Distribute 8 interlocking cubes to each student. Have students try to construct the 6-cube
rectangular prism shown on the overhead.
Distribute 3D4.BLM6: More Rectangular Prisms to each pair of students. Have students each
construct the first prism and compare it with his or her partner’s prism. When both students
agree that their prisms are congruent and match the prism in the picture, they move on to
construct the next rectangular prism.
Once they have accurately constructed all four of the rectangular prisms pictured, students
are asked to work with their partners to construct as many different 12-cube rectangular
prisms as they can.
LEARNING CONNECTION 4
Identify the Nets
MATERIALS
• 3D4.BLM7a–b: Identify the Nets (1 per student)
• Polydron shapes
Begin by showing students a net for a triangular prism made from Polydron shapes. Ask
students to identify the three-dimensional figure that will be created by folding the net.
Next, show students an arrangement of the same Polydron shapes that will not fold to make
a triangular prism. Ask students whether or not the arrangement is a net, and ask them to
Grade 4 Learning Activity: Three-Dimensional Figures – Construction Challenge