Unit Plan 6 (Grade K Math): Compose Big from Small
Compose larger shapes from smaller ones with no gaps or overlaps, draw and record simple shape “recipes,” and compare composites by attributes—orientation doesn’t change a shape’s name.
Focus: Compose larger shapes from simple shapes (e.g., 2 triangles → rectangle); decompose to see parts → whole; describe and compare composites by attributes (no gaps/overlaps, orientation doesn’t change the name).
Grade Level: K
Subject Area: Mathematics (Geometry)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 30–40 minutes per session
I. Introduction
Students become shape composers who build bigger shapes from smaller pieces (pattern blocks, tangrams, tiles) and then draw what they made. They learn to cover a region with no gaps or overlaps, to see more than one way to make the same big shape, and to use attribute language to compare designs.
Essential Questions
- How can I compose a larger shape from smaller shapes?
- What does it mean to cover a shape with no gaps or overlaps?
- How can I describe and compare two composite shapes using attributes?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Compose larger 2D shapes from simple shapes (e.g., triangles, squares, rectangles, rhombi, trapezoids).
- Decompose a composite shape to identify the parts used and how many of each.
- Represent composites by drawing and recording a simple “shape recipe” (e.g., 2 triangles + 1 square).
- Compare composites using attribute language (e.g., sides, vertices, same/different, orientation).
Standards Alignment — CCSS Kindergarten (threaded across the unit)
- K.G.6: Compose simple shapes to form larger shapes (e.g., join 2 triangles to make a rectangle/square).
- K.G.4: Analyze/compare 2D/3D shapes of different sizes/orientations; describe similarities/differences and parts.
- Mathematical Practices: MP.5 (use tools strategically) emphasized; MP.6 (precision) and MP.3 (explain/justify) threaded.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can build a bigger shape from smaller shapes with no gaps or overlaps.
- I can draw my composite and write a simple recipe (e.g., 3 triangles + 1 square).
- I can compare two composites using shape words (e.g., same/different, sides/vertices, turned).