Unit Plan 4 (PreK Math): Shapes in Our World
Identify and compare circles, squares, triangles, and rectangles in real-world objects; sort, build, and describe shapes using simple attributes like sides, corners, straight and curved lines.
Focus: Identify circles, squares, triangles, and rectangles in real-life objects; describe how shapes are alike/different using simple attributes.
Grade Level: PreK
Subject Area: Mathematics (Geometry)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 20–30 minutes per session
I. Introduction
Children explore common shapes in the classroom and beyond. Through matching, sorting, and a “shape walk,” they learn to name circles, squares, triangles, and rectangles they see in everyday objects. They also compare shapes informally using words like straight, curved, sides, and corners.
Essential Questions
- Where do I see circles, squares, triangles, and rectangles in my world?
- How can I tell if two shapes are the same or different?
- Which words help me explain how shapes look (e.g., straight/curved, sides/corners)?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Point to and name circles, squares, triangles, and rectangles in pictures and classroom objects (0–1 prompt).
- Match and sort objects by shape using cards, photos, and real items.
- Compare shapes informally using words like straight, curved, sides, and corners.
- Use drawings/tracings to show a found shape and label it.
Standards Alignment — Custom CCSS-style Pre-Kindergarten
- PK.G.1 — Name common shapes in the environment. Points to circles, squares, triangles, rectangles in classroom objects (e.g., calls a clock a “circle,” a window a “rectangle”). (Aligns to K.G.1–2 recognition)
- PK.G.3 — Compare shapes informally. Notices similarities/differences (straight/curved, number of sides). Example: “Triangle has 3 corners; circle has none.” (Foundation for K.G.4)
- Mathematical Practices (MP.1–MP.6) threaded throughout (perseverance, reasoning, modeling, tools, precision, structure).
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can find and name circles, squares, triangles, and rectangles around me.
- I can sort objects by shape and tell how two shapes are the same or different.
- I can use words like straight, curved, sides, and corners to describe a shape.