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      3D shapes can be composed from 2D nets

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can compose 3D shapes from 2D nets and identify the 2D net which will create a 3D shape.

      Key learning points

      1. A net is a 2D shape that can be folded and joined to create a 3D shape.
      2. Not all arrangements of shapes will form the net of a 3D shape.

      Keywords

      • Net - A net is a 2D representation of the faces of a 3D shape, that can be folded up into the 3D object.

      Common misconception

      It is perfectly possible for pupils to be highly numerate but struggle with the spatial awareness needed to visualise / imagine whether a 2D net will fold together to form a 2D shape.

      As part of the lesson design process you may wish to incorporate manipulatives such as construction materials for those pupils whose learning needs scaffolding. As with all scaffolding, aim to move pupils away from this when you can.

      Teacher tip

      If pupils are miscounting the faces of a 2D shape when planning to create its net, provide small sticky notes for them to place on a face when it has been counted.

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      Select all of the names of shapes that are polygons.

      Cube
      Correct answer: Square
      Correct answer: Triangle
      Semi-circle

      Q2.
      Match the polygon to the correct name.

      An image in a quiz
      Correct Answer:A,hexagon

      hexagon

      Correct Answer:B,square

      square

      Correct Answer:C,pentagon

      pentagon

      Correct Answer:D,octagon

      octagon

      Correct Answer:E,right angled triangle

      right angled triangle

      Q3.
      This shape has been made by putting number rods together. Select all of the statements that are true.

      An image in a quiz
      Correct answer: The sides are equal in length.
      The sides are different lengths.
      Correct answer: The interior angles are unequal.
      It is a regular polygon.
      Correct answer: It is a hexagon.

      Q4.
      Match the 3D shape to the number of faces it has.

      Correct Answer:Square-based pyramid,5

      5

      Correct Answer:Triangular pyramid ,4

      4

      Correct Answer:Cube ,6

      6

      Q5.
      Which of these accurately describes the properties of a cuboid?

      6 faces, 6 edges, 6 vertices
      6 faces, 8 edges, 12 vertices
      Correct answer: 6 faces, 12 edges, 8 vertices
      6 faces, 8 edges, 8 vertices

      Q6.
      Which of these accurately describes the properties of a pentagonal prism?

      4 faces, 15 edges, 15 vertices
      6 faces, 15 edges 10 vertices
      Correct answer: 7 faces, 15 edges, 10 vertices
      10 faces, 10 edges, 10 vertices

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      What is a net?

      Correct answer: A 3D shape made of 2D shapes folded together.
      A 2D shape made of 3D shapes folded togehther.
      A type of cube.

      Q2.
      Which of the following is a net for a 3D shape?

      Correct answer: A
      B
      C

      Q3.
      This is the net for which 3D shape?

      An image in a quiz
      Triangular pyramid
      Correct answer: Triangular prism
      Cuboid

      Q4.
      Which of these could be the net of a cylinder?

      An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz
      Correct Answer: An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz

      Q5.
      This net would form a pentagonal prism but it is missing a shape. Which shape is it missing?

      An image in a quiz
      Correct Answer: pentagon

      Q6.
      Which of these are nets that would form 3D shapes?

      Correct Answer: An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz
      Correct Answer: An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz

      To help you plan your 6 maths lesson on: 3D shapes can be composed from 2D nets, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...