Properties of Shape - Regular and Irregular Polygons - Planning

In a Year 5 summer term lesson focused on the properties of shapes, students explore the concepts of regular and irregular polygons. The lesson commences with a recap of previous learning, followed by engaging activities such as "guess my shape," where children infer the identity of a partially revealed 2D shape and discuss its properties. The class identifies regular polygons as those with equal sides and angles, and they articulate this definition together. A practical activity involves sorting a set of shapes into regular and irregular categories, encouraging partner discussions to observe similarities and differences. The lesson further involves modelling how to draw regular polygons on geometric paper, explaining the characteristics that define regularity, and then challenging students to draw and compare their own irregular polygons.

Students apply their knowledge by predicting whether a given 2D shape is regular or irregular and then use a protractor to measure the angles, placing the shape under the appropriate classification in the classroom. Through group work, the class sorts statements into 'Always, Sometimes, Never' categories, prompting discussions that clarify the attributes of polygons. Key questions address the nature of polygons, their regularity, and common misconceptions. The lesson concludes with a reflection on the skills used, such as drawing and measuring accurately, and a commitment to remembering the difference between regular and irregular polygons. Worksheets are differentiated to cater to various levels of understanding, from sorting shapes and drawing 4-sided polygons for those working towards expected levels, to sorting a larger variety of shapes and completing pictures to form polygons for those working at greater depth.