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Mathematics - Elementary Curriculum Mathematics Grade 1
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Strand: GEOMETRY (1.G.)

Reason with shapes and their attributes (Standards 1-3).

Standard 1.G.1

Distinguish between defining attributes (for example, triangles are closed and three-sided) versus non-defining attributes (for example, color, orientation, overall size); build and draw shapes that possess defining attributes.

  • 3-D Shape Sort
    The purpose of this task is to familiarize students with the idea of defining and non-defining attributes of geometric figures by using a collection of real objects or a set of cards with pictures of objects.
  • All vs. Only some
    The purpose of this task is for students to discuss and come to understand what constitute defining attributes for triangles, squares, and rectangles. Students start by looking for attributes shared by all the instances of a particular shape.
  • Geometry (1.G) - First Grade Core Guide
    The Utah State Board of Education (USBE) and educators around the state of Utah developed these guides for First Grade Mathematics - Geometry (1.G)
  • Grade 1 Math Module 5: Identifying, Composing, and Partitioning Shapes (EngageNY)
    In Module 5, students consider part-whole relationships through a geometric lens. The module opens with students identifying the defining parts, or attributes, of two- and three-dimensional shapes, building on their kindergarten experiences of sorting, analyzing, comparing, and creating various two- and three-dimensional shapes and objects. Students combine shapes to create a new whole: a composite shape. They also relate geometric figures to equal parts and name the parts as halves and fourths. The module closes with students applying their understanding of halves to tell time to the hour and half hour.
  • Grade 1 Unit 6: Understanding Shapes and Fractions (Georgia Standards)
    In this unit, students will study and compose two- and three-dimensional figures, identify basic figures within two- and three-dimensional figures, compare, contrast, and/or classify geometric shapes using position, shape, size, number of sides, and number of angles, solve simple problems, including those involving spatial relationships, investigate and predict the results of putting together and taking apart two- and three-dimensional shapes, create mental images of geometric shapes using spatial memory and spatial visualization, relate, identify, partition, and label fractions (halves, fourths) as equal parts of whole objects and apply terms such as half of, quarter of, to describe equal shares.
  • IXL Game: Same Shape
    This IXL game helps first graders distinguish between defining attributes (e.g., triangles are closed and three-sided) versus non-defining attributes (e.g., color, orientation, overall size). This is just one of many online games that supports the Utah Math core. Note: The IXL site requires subscription for unlimited use.


UEN logo http://www.uen.org - in partnership with Utah State Board of Education (USBE) and Utah System of Higher Education (USHE).  Send questions or comments to USBE Specialists - Patricia  Stephens-French or Molly  Basham and see the Mathematics - Elementary website. For general questions about Utah's Core Standards contact the Director - Jennifer  Throndsen.

These materials have been produced by and for the teachers of the State of Utah. Copies of these materials may be freely reproduced for teacher and classroom use. When distributing these materials, credit should be given to Utah State Board of Education. These materials may not be published, in whole or part, or in any other format, without the written permission of the Utah State Board of Education, 250 East 500 South, PO Box 144200, Salt Lake City, Utah 84114-4200.