Geometrical Thinking
In Grade 3, students explore the properties of two-dimensional and three-dimensional shapes, spatial relationships, symmetry, and transformations. They develop their spatial reasoning and visualization skills while building a foundation for more advanced geometric concepts.
Grade Three Expectations for Geometrical Thinking
Essential Learning Outcome 1: Understanding 2D Shapes and Their Properties
- Identify, describe, and classify 2D shapes based on their properties
- Recognize and draw polygons (triangles, quadrilaterals, pentagons, hexagons)
- Identify and describe the properties of polygons (sides, vertices, angles)
- Compare and contrast different types of triangles and quadrilaterals
- Identify and create symmetrical shapes and patterns
- Recognize congruent shapes
Specific Curriculum Outcomes
By the end of Grade Three, the learner will be expected to:
Inclusive Assessment Strategies
Assessment strategies that provide information about learning:
- Observations: Teacher observations during shape explorations, pattern creation, and geometric problem-solving activities
- Conversations: Student explanations of shape properties, transformations, and spatial relationships
- Products: Student work samples, including drawings, constructions, and models demonstrating geometric understanding
Sample Assessment Tools:
- Observation checklists for shape identification and classification
- Rubrics for evaluating student understanding of transformations
- Performance tasks involving creating and analyzing geometric patterns
- Exit tickets to assess daily learning objectives
- Geometric drawing and construction tasks
Inclusive Learning Strategies
Additional Resources and Materials
For Teachers
- Pattern blocks and geometric shape sets
- 3D shape models and nets
- Geoboards and geobands
- Mirrors for symmetry activities
- OECS Grade 3 Mathematics Curriculum Guide
For Students
- Individual sets of 2D and 3D shapes
- Grid paper and dot paper for geometric drawings
- Rulers, protractors, and other measuring tools
- Scissors and construction paper for creating shapes
- Geometry vocabulary cards and visual aids
Teacher Content Knowledge
Geometrical thinking in Grade 3 builds upon students' earlier experiences with shapes and spatial relationships. Students develop a deeper understanding of the properties of 2D and 3D shapes, including more formal classification based on attributes such as sides, angles, faces, edges, and vertices. They explore symmetry, congruence, and transformations (slides, flips, and turns), and begin to understand the relationships between different shapes. Through hands-on exploration and problem-solving, students develop spatial reasoning skills that form the foundation for more advanced geometric concepts in later grades.