Unit Plan 19 (Grade 2 Math): Shape Attributes—Triangles, Quadrilaterals, Pentagons

Focus: Recognize and draw shapes with specified attributes (number of sides/angles); accurately identify triangles, quadrilaterals, pentagons, hexagons, and cubes with clear labels and precision.

Grade Level: 2

Subject Area: Mathematics (Geometry • Math Practices)

Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 35–45 minutes per session

I. Introduction

Students explore attributes of 2D and 3D shapes by counting sides and angles, checking for closed figures, and matching names to features. Using hands-on tools (dot paper, geoboards, straws/connectors, and cube models), they build, draw, and label figures precisely and explain how they know a shape meets given requirements.

Essential Questions

• What attributes make a shape a triangle, quadrilateral, pentagon, or hexagon?
• How can I use precision (correct counts, labels, and neat lines) to show my thinking?
• How are 2D faces related to 3D shapes like a cube?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Recognize and draw shapes with specified numbers of sides/angles.
2. Identify and name triangles, quadrilaterals, pentagons, hexagons, and cubes from models and drawings.
3. Explain which attributes a shape has (e.g., “This is a pentagon: it has 5 sides and 5 angles”).
4. Use precision: draw with straight sides, keep shapes closed, and label counts and names correctly.

Standards Alignment — CCSS Grade 2

• 2.G.1: Recognize and draw shapes having specified attributes (e.g., a given number of angles or equal faces). Identify triangles, quadrilaterals, pentagons, hexagons, and cubes.
• Mathematical Practice — MP.6: Attend to precision (accurate counts, labels, neat drawings, correct names).

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can count and label sides and angles correctly.
• I can name shapes (triangle, quadrilateral, pentagon, hexagon, cube) and explain why.
• I can draw shapes that are closed, with straight sides, and a clear label.