Properties of shape - Horizontal and vertical​ - Starter

The 'Properties of Shape' lesson introduces students to the fundamental concepts of horizontal and vertical lines. The starter segment of this lesson is designed to engage the students' prior knowledge and get them thinking about these orientations in shapes. During this introductory phase, learners are presented with visual examples or prompts that encourage them to identify and distinguish between horizontal and vertical lines in various contexts. This could involve looking at pictures, shapes on a board, or even observing the classroom environment to spot these lines in real life. The aim is to ensure that students can recognise the difference between the two orientations and understand their significance in geometry.

By focusing on horizontal and vertical lines, the starter activity sets the groundwork for more complex geometric concepts. It is crucial for students to grasp these terms as they are not only fundamental to shape properties but also to later mathematical learning, such as graphing on a coordinate plane. The activity may include questions or challenges that prompt learners to discuss and explain their reasoning, thereby reinforcing their understanding. This initial engagement with horizontal and vertical lines ensures that students are prepared for the subsequent parts of the lesson where they will delve deeper into the properties and applications of these orientations in shapes.