STREAM Activity: 3D Shapes

Explore 3D shapes using a triangle!

Activity best for children ages 2 and up

Shapes are one of the first things we learn as a child. We then quickly learn how we can find shapes all around us. We first learn about 2D shapes, like when we draw a square on paper. But as we grow older, we learn about shapes in a different way from what we’re used to–3D shapes. If you were to draw a square on a piece of paper, that shape would be flat. Because it is a 2D shape, you wouldn’t be able to pick up the square you just drew. However, if we think of 3D shapes, like a cube of ice with more sides, would we be able to pick up that shape? Yes! Because ice cubes are 3D shapes, we are able to hold that object in our hand. The cool part about 3D shapes is that when we combine different shapes together, it can form a completely different shape or a similar one. Today, we are going to be exploring a few 3D shapes that all make the use of a triangle, along with other shapes. Let’s give it a try and make our own 3D Shape Set!

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Materials:

Paper

Scissors

Glue/tape

Ruler

Pencil

Markers/coloring materials

Guiding Questions:

What are some 3D shapes that you can find inside your home?

What object can you create with two different 3D shapes?

Directions

Step 1

Click here and print out the different templates. You can also measure and create your own 3d shape templates by using a ruler.

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Step 2

With your coloring materials decorate the outside of your shapes.

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Step 3

Cut out your shape completely. Remember to only cut the outlines.

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Step 4

Fold and glue the sides together. Hold each sections for a few seconds to make sure it fully sticks and doesn’t fall apart.

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Step 5

Line up your shapes together and make observations! What makes each one unique? How many sides do each of them have?

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Grown Ups-Are you looking for more ways to extend your child’s learning? Check out these extension activities to build upon today’s STREAM activity!

Reading Connections

Captain Invincible and the Space Shapes by Stuart J. Murphy

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Math Connections

3D shapes are found everywhere, so math concepts, like measurement, are very important for the real world. We cannot build homes, which are a combination of different 3D shapes, without being able to determine the correct size and measurements.

Real World Connections

Most of the things on earth are made of 3D shapes. Being able to identity and put together different shapes to create different structures and sculptures is an important skill.