How to Teach 2d and 3d Shapes

Looking for new ideas to teach 2D and 3D shapes using hands-on activities? Here are 26 engaging activities that you can use in your classroom to teach the attributes of 2D and 3D shapes!

Hello there! I am excited to share my updated 2D/ 3D shape math center activities packet! I’ve added some new games and additional resources to help make teaching 2D and 3D shapes using fun, hands-on, engaging activities. Read on to get new ideas on how to teach this fun subject!

Why do we teach shapes?

Most students can name shapes, but we want students to understand shapes, not just identify them. To understand shapes, students need to identify the attributes of shapes, and describe, build and compose them.

Students need multiple opportunities to become proficient in understanding shapes. They need to discuss them, sort them, build them with materials and compose shapes using other shapes.

2D / 3D Shape Activities

Here are some hands-on games you can play to teach shape attributes.

2D and 3D Shape BINGO

Nothing beats a classic game of BINGO! Students place a token on the board that matches the attribute of the described shape.

2D / 3D Shape Class Book

Create an illustrated 2D or 3D shape class book. Put the book in the class library for students to read throughout the day.

Shape Riddles

Write riddles based on the attributes of 2D or 3D shapes.

Does it roll, stack or slide?

My students love this game! They test 3D shapes to determine which ones can roll, stack or slide.

3D Shapes - Roll, Stack and Slide recording sheet

2D and 3D Shape Hunt

We’re going on a shape hunt! Explore the classroom or school to find real-life objects that look like 2D or 3D shapes.

Shape Puzzles

Match the word, the shape, and real-world object.

2D and 3D Shape Booklets

Students write the attributes of 2D and 3D shapes.

3D Shape booklet - write the attributes of 3D shapes

2D Shape booklet - write the attributes of 2D shapes

Fill in the Hexagons

Students compose a hexagon using pattern blocks.

Roll and Create a Picture

Students roll a die and add that shape to create a picture.

Spin, Read and Trace

Students spin the spinner, read the attribute the arrow or paper clip land on and trace the matching shape.

Spin, read the attribute and trace the shape

2D Shape Mats

Students use play dough or other materials (i.e., fuzzy balls) to make 2D shapes.

Geoboards!

Students pick a shape and make it on a Geoboard.

2D and 3D Shapes Picture Sort

Students sort pictures according to the rule.

2D Roll and Cover

Students roll the die, read the attribute and cover the shape on the game board.

Roll the die, read the attribute and cover the shape that matches.

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Positional Words with 3D Shapes

Another class favorite! This is a partner activity. One student describes the picture using the names of the 3D shapes and positional words while another students builds it.

Use positional words to describe the location of 3D shapes

Building 2D Shapes

Using materials such as craft sticks, play dough, or marshmallows, students build 2D and 3D shapes and record how many sides and vertices.

Use play dough and craft sticks to build 2D shapes.

Digital Game!

There’s an interactive, multiple-choice PowerPoint game to help students learn the attributes of 2D and 3D shapes.

Printables

Click here to see all the printables included in this resource!

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How do you teach shapes in your classroom? Let me know in the comments section below!

Happy Teaching,

Tee

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How to Teach 2d and 3d Shapes

Why do we teach shapes?