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math · pre-k

Find and Build Shapes

Recognize circles, triangles, squares and rectangles.

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Explore the related learning targets, foundations and possible next connections.

Learning goals

  • Recognize circles, triangles, squares and rectangles.

Before you begin

Notice edges and corners in familiar objects.

Age and grade do not measure readiness. Adjust reading or adult support to preserve the intended learning goal.

Follow the sequence

Complete practice

Find and Build Shapes: first student practice pagePractice preview
Pre-K
Key

Find and Build Shapes

Practice · Adult guidance · 25 min

Recognize circles, triangles, squares and rectangles. A complete set with exploration, practice and application. Use the linked unit for the learning sequence and teaching guide.

Printable activity

1. Explore

Find and Build Shapes: Explore and Explain: first student practice pagePractice preview
Pre-K
Key

Find and Build Shapes: Explore and Explain

Explore · Adult guidance · 10 min

Recognize circles, triangles, squares and rectangles. A focused learn activity. Use the linked unit for the learning sequence and teaching guide.

Printable activity

2. Practice

Find and Build Shapes: Practice Independently: first student practice pagePractice preview
Pre-K
Key

Find and Build Shapes: Practice Independently

Practice · Adult guidance · 10 min

Recognize circles, triangles, squares and rectangles. A focused practice activity. Use the linked unit for the learning sequence and teaching guide.

Printable activity

3. Apply

Find and Build Shapes: Apply and Create: first student practice pagePractice preview
Pre-K
Key

Find and Build Shapes: Apply and Create

Apply · Adult guidance · 15 min

Recognize circles, triangles, squares and rectangles. A focused apply activity. Use the linked unit for the learning sequence and teaching guide.

Printable activity

Download the unit pack

Numbered activities, separate answer keys and a teaching guide in one ZIP. The pack uses the focused sequence; the complete practice sheet above is an alternative.

Teaching and response guide

  1. Begin with: Choose the name of this shape.
  2. Connect the response to: How many sides does this square have?
  3. Ask students to apply the idea: Draw a triangle and a circle.

Watch for: Identifying a shape only by its usual orientation.

Check the answer criteria for each task. A supported explanation may have more than one acceptable response. These activities offer evidence to discuss; completing a sheet alone does not establish mastery.