Geometry in a Box

Build, sort, and classify geometric solids, then store them in a box designed with information about the figures you've made.

• 1.

  Identify and review familiar 3-dimensional geometric shapes and their mathematical names. Create an attribute grid listing the name of each figure, the number of sides, edges, vertices, and any other identifying characteristics.

• 2.

  Use Crayola® Model Magic® to build a small, accurate set of each of these space figures. Dry for 24 to 36 hours, turning pieces occasionally to expose all sides to air.

• 3.

  Write your initials on each dry shape with Crayola Fine Line Markers.

• 4.

  Find a recycled box with a lid to hold your geometric figures. Trace all sides of the box on construction paper. Cut out each piece with Crayola Scissors.

• 5.

  Draw and label all of your solid geometric figures on the papers with Crayola Metallic Colored Pencils. Attach these papers to cover all sides of the box using Crayola Washable Glue Sticks. Cover the top of the box with a paper with your name on it.

Benefits

• Students identify, describe, build, draw, compare, and classify physical models of solid geometry figures.
• Students design a box in which to store their geometric space models.

Adaptations

• Work in groups to sort space figures. Mix all of your solids, then classify them according to a variety of categories, including number of sides, shapes that roll, and similar sizes. Record your classifications in a diagram drawn with metallic colored pen
• Younger students compare two space figures from their collections. Fold a piece of white paper in half. On the left side, use metallic colored pencils to list and illustrate things that are the same about the two figures. On the right side, list and illus
• Shape one piece of wet Model Magic into several different shapes, observing how the same quantity of modeling dough looks when it is used to represent various types of solids.