Missing Puzzle Pieces

Curriculum Goal

Sort and identify two-dimensional shapes by comparing number of sides, side lengths, angles, and number of lines of symmetry.

The teacher shows a series of images at the front of the class. Students must clearly communicate which piece(s) completes the puzzle.
This lesson can also be easily adapted to an online environment.
- Teachers may choose to share the slides with their students or not.
- Google Slides file has prompts in the notes section for teachers. Educators may wish to delete these before sharing with students.

Present students with a puzzle problem from the Appendix.
- See individual slides for specific instructions.
Ask students to think about how they would communicate which piece(s) complete the puzzle.
If possible, have the students take turns sharing how they know the solution of the puzzle to classmate.
As the challenges become increasingly difficult, facilitate discussion around the solution.
Elicit reasoning as to why some pieces could not be possible solutions.
Move on to the next problem when you feel the students are ready.
This challenge does not need to be completed in one day.
This challenge is intended to be revisited, allowing students to strengthen their mathematical spatial language over time.

A possible introductory lesson for students learning the names of shapes.

Students use spatial language to learn about the properties and orientations of shapes.