Standard 1: Classify two-dimensional figures and three-dimensional figures based on defining attributes.

General Information
Number: MA.5.GR.1
Title: Classify two-dimensional figures and three-dimensional figures based on defining attributes.
Type: Standard
Subject: Mathematics (B.E.S.T.)
Grade: 5
Strand: Geometric Reasoning

Related Benchmarks

This cluster includes the following benchmarks.

Related Access Points

This cluster includes the following access points.

Access Points

MA.5.GR.1.AP.1a
Sort triangles into different categories based on the size of their angles. Triangles include acute, obtuse and right.
MA.5.GR.1.AP.1b
Sort quadrilaterals into different categories based on shared defining attributes. Explore why a quadrilateral would or would not belong to a category. Quadrilaterals include parallelograms, rhombi, rectangles, squares and trapezoids.
MA.5.GR.1.AP.2
Identify and sort three-dimensional figures into categories based on their defining attributes. Figures are limited to right rectangular pyramids, right rectangular prisms, right circular cylinders, right circular cones and spheres.

Related Resources

Vetted resources educators can use to teach the concepts and skills in this topic.

Formative Assessments

Classifying Shapes:

Students are asked to classify quadrilaterals and trapezoids by their properties.

Type: Formative Assessment

Shape Clues:

Using shape attribute clues, the student will determine shapes that fit these clues and describe a category to which they both belong.

Type: Formative Assessment

Where Do They Belong:

Students are asked to sort shapes using a Venn diagram and to determine the label for each section of the diagram.

Type: Formative Assessment

Guess My Shape:

Using shape attribute clues, the student is asked to determine two shapes that fit these clues and describe a category to which both belong.

Type: Formative Assessment

Grouping Triangles:

Students are shown three triangles that fit a rule (each has a right angle) and are asked to determine which of three other triangles also fit the rule.

Type: Formative Assessment

Classifying Squares:

Students discuss the attributes of squares and rhombuses and consider how these two shapes are related.

Type: Formative Assessment

Classifying Quadrilaterals:

Students are given a diagram of quadrilaterals that have been sorted and are asked to determine how the shapes were sorted. Then, students are given two additional quadrilaterals and asked to place them into the appropriate region on the diagram.

Type: Formative Assessment

What Do You Know About Rectangles?:

Students are asked to describe the defining attributes of parallelograms and to consider the relationship between rectangles and parallelograms.

Type: Formative Assessment

Trapezoids:

Students are asked to consider how the hierarchy of quadrilaterals would change based on the two different definitions of trapezoids.

Type: Formative Assessment

Sketching Triangles:

Students are asked to use shape descriptions to sketch shapes and explain why some cannot be sketched.

Type: Formative Assessment

Image/Photograph

Clipart: Geometric Shapes:

In this lesson, you will find clip art and various illustrations of polygons, circles, ellipses, star polygons, and inscribed shapes.

Type: Image/Photograph

Lesson Plans

Using Machine Learning and Computational Thinking to Train an AI Model:

Students will explore Artificial Intelligence (AI) and use computational thinking and Machine Learning (ML) to pretrain a model to recognize and identify objects, including geometric shapes and aircraft. They will used unplugged activities to mimic sorting and classification of the objects using their prior knowledge and then make connections to human learning and Machine Learning. Students will then problem solve and propose solutions using computational thinking to improve the ML model to better recognize the objects. This lesson is an integrated Computer Science, Science and Math lesson designed for students in grades 3-5 to apply math and science content knowledge while exploring and using computational thinking as they think like Computer Engineers and reflect on potential career paths.

Type: Lesson Plan

Polygon Park:

In this lesson students will use standards-based quadrilaterals and triangles to design a roller coaster tower. Students will use the Engineering Design Process to work through the processes in this lesson.

Type: Lesson Plan

Go TRI a Kite!:

In this lesson, students will identify and classify triangles. In addition, students will demonstrate how to solve problems requiring attention to approximation, selection of appropriate measuring tools, and precision of measurement using triangles.

Type: Lesson Plan

Where in the Venn are the Quadrilaterals?:

"Where in the Venn are the Quadrilaterals?" is an activity that helps the student to develop a better understanding of classifying two-dimensional figures in a hierarchy based on properties.

Type: Lesson Plan

A Closer Look at Quadrilaterals - The Parallelogram Connection:

Students work together as a class and in small groups to classify quadrilaterals.

Type: Lesson Plan

Analyzing Polyhedra:

Students will construct several simple polyhedra, then count the number of faces, edges, and vertices. These data should suggest Euler's formula. 

Type: Lesson Plan

Quadrilaterals using Unit Origami - Sonobe Cube:

This lesson can be used as an introduction - unit attention grabber- or as a final review on quadrilaterals. As the class forms a Sonobe cube, the different quadrilaterals are formed with each new fold. Included is a Power Point introduction with instructions, a video I made demonstrating how to fold the unit origami design, a video of my introduction lesson  to quadrilaterals and 2 worksheets which accompany the lesson. I enjoy doing this activity each year and am amazed at all the prior knowledge the students have retained as the lesson proceeds.

Type: Lesson Plan

Triangles are Plane Easy:

The student will be engaged in a paper plane making activity while discovering the attributes of different triangles. The students will learned the similarities and differences of the following triangles: scalene, isosceles, equilateral, right, obtuse, and acute.

Type: Lesson Plan

Original Student Tutorials

Classifying Quadrilaterals:

Identify and classify quadrilaterals, including squares, rectangles, and rhombi, using their defining attributes in tables and Venn diagrams with this interactive tutorial.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Action ‘Figures’ Unite! - Part 8:

Apply your understanding of the defining attributes of all 2-dimensional figures covered in this series to classify their relationships using Euler and Venn Diagrams.

This part 8 in a 8-part series. Click below to explore the other tutorials in the series.

Part 1: "Figuring Out" 2D Figures

Part 2: Exploring Relationships with Venn & Euler Diagrams

Part 3: Classifying Triangles by Angles Using Euler Diagrams

Part 4: Classifying Triangles by Sides & Angles Using Venn and Euler Diagrams

Part 5: Quadrilaterals

Part 6: Trapezoids

Part 7: More Quadrilaterals

Type: Original Student Tutorial

More Quadrilaterals - Part 7:

By the end of this tutorial you should be able to identify examples of quadrilaterals and their defining attributes to classify them using diagrams. We will focus on kites and other quadrilaterals in this tutorial.

This part 7 in a 7-part series. Click below to explore the other tutorials in the series.

Part 1: "Figuring Out" 2D Figures

Part 2: Exploring Relationships with Venn & Euler Diagrams

Part 3: Classifying Triangles by Angles Using Euler Diagrams

Part 4: Classifying Triangles by Sides & Angles Using Venn and Euler Diagrams

Part 5: Quadrilaterals

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Trapezoids Part 6:

Explore the defining attributes of trapezoids--a special type of quadrilateral--and classify them using diagrams in this interactive tutorial. You'll also learn how two different definitions for a trapezoid can change affect classifications of quadrilaterals. 

This part 6 in a 6-part series. Click below to explore the other tutorials in the series. 

Part 1: "Figuring Out" 2D Figures

Part 2: Exploring Relationships with Venn & Euler Diagrams

Part 3: Classifying Triangles by Angles Using Euler Diagrams

Part 4: Classifying Triangles by Sides & Angles Using Venn and Euler Diagrams

Part 5: Quadrilaterals

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Quadrilaterals - Part 5:

Learn how to classify quadrilaterals--including parallelograms, rectangles, rhombi, and squares--based on their defining attributes using diagrams in this interactive tutorial.

This is part 5 in a 6-part series. Click below to explore the other tutorials in the series.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Exploring Relationships with Venn & Euler Diagrams – Part 2:

Learn how to show relationships represented in Venn & Euler Diagrams as you complete this interactive geometry tutorial.

This is part two of four. Click below to open the other tutorials in the series.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Classifying Triangles by Sides & Angles Using Venn and Euler Diagrams – Part 4:

Learn how triangles can be sorted and classified using side lengths and angle measures in this interactive tutorial.

This is the final tutorial in a four-part series. Click below to open the other tutorials in the series.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Classifying Triangles by Angles using Euler Diagrams – Part 3:

Learn to classify triangles and use Euler diagrams to show relationships, in this interactive tutorial.

This is part-three of four. Click below to open the other tutorials in the series.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

"Figuring Out" 2D Figures - Part 1:

Explore 2D (two-dimensional) figures and see how every 2D figure possesses unique attributes in this interactive tutorial.

This is part one of four. Click below to open the other tutorials in the series.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

The Nightmare of Pouring Polygons: Quadrilateral Classification:

Overcome the nightmare of quadrilateral classification based on the presence of parallel, perpendicular, and congruent sides as you complete this interactive tutorial. Learn about parallelogram, rectangles, rhombi and squares and how they are related.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Perspectives Video: Teaching Ideas

Estimating Angles:

Unlock an effective teaching strategy for teaching students to estimate angle measurements in this Teacher Perspectives video for educators.

Type: Perspectives Video: Teaching Idea

Double Bubble Diagram to Compare Math Concepts:

Unlock an effective teaching strategy for helping students make connections in mathematics using the Double Bubble Diagram in this Teacher Perspectives video for educators.

Type: Perspectives Video: Teaching Idea

Problem-Solving Tasks

Lines of symmetry for triangles:

This activity provides students an opportunity to recognize these distinguishing features of the different types of triangles before the technical language has been introduced. For finding the lines of symmetry, cut-out models of the four triangles would be helpful so that the students can fold them to find the lines.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Lines of symmetry for quadrilaterals:

This task provides students a chance to experiment with reflections of the plane and their impact on specific types of quadrilaterals. It is both interesting and important that these types of quadrilaterals can be distinguished by their lines of symmetry.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Are these right?:

The purpose of this task is for students to measure angles and decide whether the triangles are right or not. Students should already understand concepts of angle measurement  and know how to measure angles using a protractor before working on this task.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Teaching Idea

An Introduction To Quadrilaterals:

This lesson is designed to introduce students to quadrilaterals and the terms and properties associated with quadrilaterals. This lesson provides links to discussions and activities related to quadrilaterals as well as suggested ways to integrate them into the lesson. Finally, the lesson provides links to follow-up lessons designed for use in succession with the current one.

Type: Teaching Idea

Tutorials

Categorizing Geometric Shapes: Practice Examples:

This Khan Academy tutorial video presents examples and explanations for categorizations of perpendicular sides and right, obtuse, and acute triangles.

Type: Tutorial

Examples of Triangle Categories:

In this Khan Academy tutorial video triangles are categorized by angles or side lengths of a specified size.

Type: Tutorial

Quadrilateral Overview:

This Khan Academy tutorial video introduces quadrilaterals. their categories, and subcategories.

Type: Tutorial

Unit/Lesson Sequence

Three Dimensional Shapes:

In this interactive, self-guided unit on 3-dimensional shape, students (and teachers) explore 3-dimensional shapes, determine surface area and volume, derive Euler's formula, and investigate Platonic solids. Interactive quizzes and animations are included throughout, including a 15 question quiz for student completion.

Type: Unit/Lesson Sequence

Student Resources

Vetted resources students can use to learn the concepts and skills in this topic.

Original Student Tutorials

Classifying Quadrilaterals:

Identify and classify quadrilaterals, including squares, rectangles, and rhombi, using their defining attributes in tables and Venn diagrams with this interactive tutorial.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Action ‘Figures’ Unite! - Part 8:

Apply your understanding of the defining attributes of all 2-dimensional figures covered in this series to classify their relationships using Euler and Venn Diagrams.

This part 8 in a 8-part series. Click below to explore the other tutorials in the series.

Part 1: "Figuring Out" 2D Figures

Part 2: Exploring Relationships with Venn & Euler Diagrams

Part 3: Classifying Triangles by Angles Using Euler Diagrams

Part 4: Classifying Triangles by Sides & Angles Using Venn and Euler Diagrams

Part 5: Quadrilaterals

Part 6: Trapezoids

Part 7: More Quadrilaterals

Type: Original Student Tutorial

More Quadrilaterals - Part 7:

By the end of this tutorial you should be able to identify examples of quadrilaterals and their defining attributes to classify them using diagrams. We will focus on kites and other quadrilaterals in this tutorial.

This part 7 in a 7-part series. Click below to explore the other tutorials in the series.

Part 1: "Figuring Out" 2D Figures

Part 2: Exploring Relationships with Venn & Euler Diagrams

Part 3: Classifying Triangles by Angles Using Euler Diagrams

Part 4: Classifying Triangles by Sides & Angles Using Venn and Euler Diagrams

Part 5: Quadrilaterals

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Trapezoids Part 6:

Explore the defining attributes of trapezoids--a special type of quadrilateral--and classify them using diagrams in this interactive tutorial. You'll also learn how two different definitions for a trapezoid can change affect classifications of quadrilaterals. 

This part 6 in a 6-part series. Click below to explore the other tutorials in the series. 

Part 1: "Figuring Out" 2D Figures

Part 2: Exploring Relationships with Venn & Euler Diagrams

Part 3: Classifying Triangles by Angles Using Euler Diagrams

Part 4: Classifying Triangles by Sides & Angles Using Venn and Euler Diagrams

Part 5: Quadrilaterals

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Quadrilaterals - Part 5:

Learn how to classify quadrilaterals--including parallelograms, rectangles, rhombi, and squares--based on their defining attributes using diagrams in this interactive tutorial.

This is part 5 in a 6-part series. Click below to explore the other tutorials in the series.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Exploring Relationships with Venn & Euler Diagrams – Part 2:

Learn how to show relationships represented in Venn & Euler Diagrams as you complete this interactive geometry tutorial.

This is part two of four. Click below to open the other tutorials in the series.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Classifying Triangles by Sides & Angles Using Venn and Euler Diagrams – Part 4:

Learn how triangles can be sorted and classified using side lengths and angle measures in this interactive tutorial.

This is the final tutorial in a four-part series. Click below to open the other tutorials in the series.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Classifying Triangles by Angles using Euler Diagrams – Part 3:

Learn to classify triangles and use Euler diagrams to show relationships, in this interactive tutorial.

This is part-three of four. Click below to open the other tutorials in the series.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

"Figuring Out" 2D Figures - Part 1:

Explore 2D (two-dimensional) figures and see how every 2D figure possesses unique attributes in this interactive tutorial.

This is part one of four. Click below to open the other tutorials in the series.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

The Nightmare of Pouring Polygons: Quadrilateral Classification:

Overcome the nightmare of quadrilateral classification based on the presence of parallel, perpendicular, and congruent sides as you complete this interactive tutorial. Learn about parallelogram, rectangles, rhombi and squares and how they are related.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Problem-Solving Tasks

Lines of symmetry for triangles:

This activity provides students an opportunity to recognize these distinguishing features of the different types of triangles before the technical language has been introduced. For finding the lines of symmetry, cut-out models of the four triangles would be helpful so that the students can fold them to find the lines.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Lines of symmetry for quadrilaterals:

This task provides students a chance to experiment with reflections of the plane and their impact on specific types of quadrilaterals. It is both interesting and important that these types of quadrilaterals can be distinguished by their lines of symmetry.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Are these right?:

The purpose of this task is for students to measure angles and decide whether the triangles are right or not. Students should already understand concepts of angle measurement  and know how to measure angles using a protractor before working on this task.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Tutorials

Categorizing Geometric Shapes: Practice Examples:

This Khan Academy tutorial video presents examples and explanations for categorizations of perpendicular sides and right, obtuse, and acute triangles.

Type: Tutorial

Examples of Triangle Categories:

In this Khan Academy tutorial video triangles are categorized by angles or side lengths of a specified size.

Type: Tutorial

Quadrilateral Overview:

This Khan Academy tutorial video introduces quadrilaterals. their categories, and subcategories.

Type: Tutorial

Parent Resources

Vetted resources caregivers can use to help students learn the concepts and skills in this topic.

Image/Photograph

Clipart: Geometric Shapes:

In this lesson, you will find clip art and various illustrations of polygons, circles, ellipses, star polygons, and inscribed shapes.

Type: Image/Photograph

Problem-Solving Tasks

Lines of symmetry for triangles:

This activity provides students an opportunity to recognize these distinguishing features of the different types of triangles before the technical language has been introduced. For finding the lines of symmetry, cut-out models of the four triangles would be helpful so that the students can fold them to find the lines.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Lines of symmetry for quadrilaterals:

This task provides students a chance to experiment with reflections of the plane and their impact on specific types of quadrilaterals. It is both interesting and important that these types of quadrilaterals can be distinguished by their lines of symmetry.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Are these right?:

The purpose of this task is for students to measure angles and decide whether the triangles are right or not. Students should already understand concepts of angle measurement  and know how to measure angles using a protractor before working on this task.

Type: Problem-Solving Task