Grade 1 Mathematics – Sorting and Classifying 2D and 3D Shapes

Grade 1 Mathematics - Sorting and Classifying 2D and 3D Shapes

Lesson Plan Title: Grade 1 Mathematics – Sorting and Classifying 2D and 3D Shapes


1. Materials Needed:

  • Large 2D shape cut-outs (squares, rectangles, circles, triangles)
  • Large 3D shape models (cubes, spheres, cones, cylinders)
  • Sorting mats or trays
  • Markers or crayons
  • Worksheets with pictures of 2D and 3D shapes for sorting exercises
  • Interactive whiteboard or chart paper
  • Scissors and glue for shape collage activity
  • Camera or tablets for the “Shape Hunt” activity (if available).

2. Learning Objectives:

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:
– Identify and describe various 2D and 3D shapes.
– Sort and classify shapes based on their attributes (size, color, type).
– Engage in group discussions to explain their sorting choices using appropriate vocabulary.
– Create a shape collage using cut-outs of identified shapes and correctly label them.

3. Vocabulary:

  • Shape
  • 2D (two-dimensional)
  • 3D (three-dimensional)
  • Sort
  • Classify
  • Faces, Edges, and Vertices (for 3D shapes)
  • Attributes

4. Previous Learning:

Students have previously learned about basic shapes and have a basic understanding of their properties. They have practiced naming shapes and recognizing them in their environment.

5. Anticipated Challenges and Solutions:

  • Challenge: Students may struggle to differentiate between similar shapes (e.g., square vs. rectangle).
    • Solution: Use real-life examples and manipulatives to demonstrate differences in attributes.
  • Challenge: Some students may have difficulty collaboratively explaining their ideas.
    • Solution: Provide sentence starters (e.g., “I chose this shape because…”) to help students articulate their thoughts during discussions.

6. Beginning Activities (10% of time):

  • Introduction (5 minutes): Begin the lesson by displaying pictures of various 2D and 3D shapes on the interactive whiteboard. Invite students to identify and name the shapes to activate prior knowledge.

  • Discussion (5 minutes): Introduce the concepts of sorting and classifying. Ask students how they might group the shapes shown, prompting them with questions like, “What makes this group different from that one?”

7. Middle Activities (80% of time):

  • Sorting Activity (20 minutes):

    • Divide students into small groups and provide each group with a set of 2D and 3D shapes.
    • Provide sorting mats/trays and ask them to sort the shapes into 2D and 3D categories.
    • Circulate the room to ask guiding questions and facilitate discussions.
  • Attributes Discussion (15 minutes):
    • After sorting, gather the class together to discuss the attributes of the shapes.
    • Invite groups to share their sorted shapes and explain their reasoning using prompts like, “How did you decide to put these shapes together?”
  • Hands-on Exploration (30 minutes):
    • Conduct a “Shape Hunt” where students walk around the classroom or schoolyard to find objects resembling the shapes they learned about.
    • Have students take photos or draw sketches of these shapes for class discussion, ensuring they can share and explain the monitoring process involved in choosing their items.
  • Shape Collage Creation (15 minutes):
    • Provide students with worksheets featuring different shapes to cut out and decorate.
    • Students will create a collage of their favourite shapes, labeling them with their names and attributes to reinforce learning visually.

8. End Activities (10% of time):

  • Review and Reflect (5 minutes): Reconvene as a whole class to discuss what students learned about sorting and classifying shapes, as well as their findings during the shape hunt.

  • Closing Activity (5 minutes): Play a quick game where students are shown a shape and must quickly identify whether it is 2D or 3D. Use a “thumbs up” or “thumbs down” system for responses, promoting active participation.

9. Assessment and Checks for Understanding:

  • Observe students during group activities to assess their ability to sort and classify shapes effectively.
  • Use informal assessments by asking students to explain their sorting decisions during the discussion.
  • Collect and review shape collages for understanding and correct labeling.

10. Differentiation Strategies:

  • For Advanced Learners: Encourage them to identify and categorize shapes with more complex attributes (e.g., symmetry, angles, or relating to everyday objects).

  • For Struggling Learners: Pair them with supportive peers during group activities. Provide extra tactile materials for hands-on learning.

  • Visual Learners: Incorporate more visual aids and interactive activities like shape sorting games and hands-on exploration.

11. Teaching Tips:

  • Ensure that you maintain a safe and encouraging environment for all students to express their ideas.
  • Be prepared to offer additional explanations, as shapes can sometimes be confusing for young learners.
  • Use cross-curricular links to connect shapes into Art (collage) and Literacy (labeling shapes), making the learning experience richer.

This refined lesson plan aligns with the CAPS curriculum by fostering critical thinking, interactive learning, and an understanding of core mathematical concepts through engaging tasks appropriate for Grade 1 learners. It also emphasizes inclusive practices and strategies that cater to a diverse classroom environment.

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