Comparing Shapes

Overview

This 30-minute lesson is designed for a SEND KS2 class of 14 students, focusing on comparing 2D and 3D shapes. It aligns with the National Curriculum for England’s key stage 2 programme of study in mathematics, developing pupils’ ability to understand shape properties, make comparisons, and communicate their ideas clearly through discussion and group work.

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National Curriculum Links

• Mathematics: Geometry - properties of shapes
• Key Stage 2 (Years 3 & 4 focus)
• Pupils should be taught to:
  • "Compare and classify geometric shapes, including quadrilaterals and triangles, based on their properties and sizes"
  • "Identify and describe the properties of 3-D shapes, including the number of edges, vertices and faces"
  • "Identify 2-D shapes on the surface of 3-D shapes"

SEND Considerations

• Use of multisensory approaches (visual, tactile, auditory)
• Chunked instructions with repetition
• Group work to promote peer interaction and support
• Visual aids and physical shapes to scaffold understanding

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Learning Objectives

By the end of the lesson, pupils will be able to:

1. Recognise and name common 2D shapes (circle, square, triangle, rectangle) and 3D shapes (cube, sphere, cylinder, cone).
2. Describe properties of these shapes using simple vocabulary (sides, edges, faces, corners/vertices).
3. Compare and contrast 2D and 3D shapes orally and via a visual diagram.
4. Categorise shapes in a Venn diagram showing similarities and differences.

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Resources Needed

• Large paper or whiteboard for Venn diagram
• Pre-cut 2D shape cards (circle, square, rectangle, triangle)
• Pre-cut 3D shape models or pictures (cube, sphere, cylinder, cone)
• Sticky tack or magnets to affix shapes to board
• Shape vocabulary posters with images and key words
• Individual mini whiteboards and markers for each student (optional)
• Smartboard or projector (if available) for visual displays

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Timing and Lesson Breakdown

Time	Activity	Description	SEND Support Strategies
0–5 min	Starter – Shape Recall	Show 2D and 3D shapes via physical models/pictures. Pupils name shapes aloud. Use repetition and choral response.	Use “I spy” prompts and sentence starters (e.g., “This shape has…”). Visual cue cards.
5–15 min	Guided Discussion: Properties	Discuss shape properties (edges, sides, faces, vertices). Use shape posters. For each shape, model describing properties and encourage pupils to participate.	Use gestures, real objects to count sides/edges. Pair-share for verbal reinforcement. Keep language simple.
15–25 min	Group Activity: Venn Diagram Sorting	Pupils work in small groups (3-4) to place shape cards/models onto a large Venn diagram (2D, both, 3D). Teacher guides discussion on category placement.	Visual prompt sentences on the board: “This is a 2D shape because…”, “This is a 3D shape because…”. Physical touching and handling of shapes.
25–30 min	Plenary & Reflection	Talk through the completed Venn diagram as a class. Pupils share one thing they learnt or found interesting about shapes. Teacher models simple sentences.	Use sentence stems and offer alternative ways to share (drawing, pointing). Praise all attempts to communicate ideas.

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Differentiation and Additional Support

• Scaffolded vocabulary with word banks and visual symbol supports.
• Use of tactile and manipulative resources for kinaesthetic learners.
• Small, consistent groups to ensure social and academic support.
• Allow alternative responses: drawing, pointing, simple verbal answers.
• Extended time or simplified properties for pupils needing extra time.

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Assessment for Learning (AfL)

• Observe participation in naming shapes and group discussion
• Check pupils' ability to identify properties with prompting
• Monitor correct placement of shapes in the Venn diagram
• Use questioning throughout to probe understanding: "Is a square 2D or 3D? Why?"
• Plenary reflections as a formative assessment of understanding

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Extension Ideas (If time or ability allows)

• Pupils draw their own 2D and 3D shapes and label properties.
• Use tablets/iPads with shape sorting games tailored to SEND needs.
• Create shape “rap” or chant summarising properties for multi-sensory reinforcement.

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Teacher Reflection Tips

• Note which pupils grasp shape properties without support and which need further intervention.
• Consider how group dynamics support peer learning and adjust groupings if needed.
• Reflect on how effectively the Venn diagram activity engaged all learners and promoted communication skills.
• Use observations to inform next lesson (final lesson in the unit) focusing on more complex shape properties or real-life shape applications.

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This engaging, multisensory lesson ensures that SEND KS2 pupils working within the national curriculum framework develop a solid, communicative understanding of comparing 2D and 3D shapes through hands-on and collaborative learning.