Shape Lessons That Connect

Wherever students look, they can see shapes. Just looking out the window of their classroom, students can see geometric figures, such as the air conditioning vent that snakes around on an adjoining rooftop, or a desk shaped to meet its specific purpose. Shapes are found everywhere, and can be used as a way to introduce a variety of subjects including art, music, and science. 

A shape lesson doesn't have to be just about identifying geometric figures, it can be about connecting this information to real life. If you want to use an example of someone who works with shapes and their functions on a daily basis, you could talk about engineers. Say, for example, an engineer wants to build a life-size robot that will roll around office buildings, and communicate with the occupants. The engineer needs to design a model using different shapes that will allow the robot to do what the engineer needs it to do. The head might be round, or rectangular, and the body in the shape of a triangle. It all depends on what the robot will be expected to do.

In another example of someone who uses shapes on a daily basis, you could talk about artists. They copy forms from the real world, and their imagination, to create great works of art. Take a look at Picasso’s works if you’d like to see geometry in action. If possible, you could have an artist come in, and describe how shapes and form work in their art.

I’ve included examples below that I think kick shape lessons up a notch.

Elementary:

Shapes & Angles All Around Us: This lesson has students find shapes in real life, photograph them, and then manipulate the pictures to highlight the figures. I thought this lesson was great because it gives students a motivating way to look for shapes. It also includes the use of technology by asking students to use digital cameras, and paint programs.

Musical Shapes: This lesson has students identify shapes in musical instruments. Students work with six instruments that they are expected to describe using creative language. They then write rhythm patterns using geometric shapes.

This is My Home: Students discuss habitats and shapes in order to complete an activity in which they draw and describe their own homes. Students learn about what architects do, and draw their homes, including the details in each room. They talk about doors, doorknobs, windows, etc  . . . They describe the shapes.

Creepy, Crawly Critters: Student learn about insects, shapes, and more. If you want a lesson that will peak their interest, this one may be it. The lesson comes with information about helpful insects, such as ladybugs, and puzzles for students to put together. Students also make their own insects. I would infuse a little more discussion of shapes, but overall a fun lesson.

Grades K-1 – Shape and Space (3-D Objects and 2-D Shapes): Students explore, sort, and classify real world and three dimensional objects. Students work with circles, squares, triangles, or rectangles. They make patters with the shapes.

Geometric Shapes Collage: Students learn about geometric shapes, and put together a collage. This is a great way to get students thinking about shapes. I can just imagine the beautiful creations they will come up with. It gives you an opportunity to explore collage on the web, and commune with your inner artist.