Sorting Polygons

This is a lesson plan begins with the discussing the attributes of polygons. The students then sort the polygons in Venn Diagrams, according to these attributes. Extensions to fundamental ideas about probability and statistics are also included. This is a lesson plan that is complete with objectives, materials, and a learning plan. It also has practice activities for the students and extension activities.

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Sorting Polygons

Standards & Objectives

Learning objectives: 

Learning Objectives:

Students will:

  • Precisely describe, classify, and understand relationships among types of two-dimensional objects using their defining properties.
  • Use Venn Diagrams to sort polygons according to certain attributes.
  • Understand and apply basic concepts of probability.

NCTM Standards and Expectations

  • Precisely describe, classify, and understand relationships among types of two- and three-dimensional objects using their defining properties.
  • Use proportionality and a basic understanding of probability to make and test conjectures about the results of experiments and simulations.

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Understanding
Extension suggestions: 

Extensions:

  •  One can design activities that use sets of polygons to reinforce ideas about probability and statistics. For instance, when holding a bag containing the diagrams, a teacher can ask, "What is the probability of drawing at random a regular polygon from this set of polygons?" A more difficult question is "Given that you have selected a triangle, what is the probability that you have selected an isosceles triangle?"
  • Another task asks students to sort the polygons into groups determined by the number of sides. They construct a bar graph showing the frequency of three-sided polygons, four-sided polygons, and so on. Having students draw a circle graph showing the percent of polygons in each category will enrich their understanding of percents and angle measurement.

Helpful Hints

Materials:

  • Blank Transparencies
  • Shapes Activity Sheet 
  • Sorting Cards Activity Sheet 
  • Venn Diagram with One Circle Overhead 
  • Venn Diagram with Two Intersecting Circles Overhead 
  • Venn Diagram with Three Intersecting Circles Overhead 
  • Venn Diagram with One Circle Inside Another Circle Overhead 

References

Contributors: 
Nicole Bowling
Originator: 
Ayers Institute for Learning & Innovation