Shape Detective Mystery: Sides Equal Vertices?
A mathematical investigation for Year 3/4 WALT: Identify and compare polygons Success Criteria: I can count sides and vertices
The Mystery Statement
Every polygon has an equal number of sides and angles (vertices) Is this ALWAYS true? Let's investigate like detectives!
What Makes a Polygon?
WALT: Define what a polygon is Success Criteria: I can identify polygon features A polygon is a flat shape with straight sides that is completely closed No curves allowed! Must be completely closed - no gaps
Polygon Detective Challenge
Look at the shapes on your table Sort them: Polygon or Not Polygon? Explain your choices to your partner Success Criteria: I can classify shapes correctly
Vertices vs Angles - What's the Difference?
WALT: Understand vertices and angles Vertex = The pointy corner where two lines meet Angle = The space between two lines Every vertex has an angle! Let's count both on our shapes
Building Shapes with Lollysticks
Start with 3 sticks - make a triangle Count: How many sticks? How many corners? Add 1 more stick - what happens? Keep adding and counting! Record your findings
Testing Our Rule
{"left":"Triangle: 3 sides, 3 vertices ✓\nSquare: 4 sides, 4 vertices ✓\nPentagon: 5 sides, 5 vertices ✓","right":"Hexagon: 6 sides, 6 vertices ✓\nThe rule works so far!\nCan we find a shape that breaks it?"}
Detective Challenge Question
Can you find a polygon that breaks our rule? Does every polygon ALWAYS have equal sides and vertices? Think like a detective - look for evidence! Discuss with your partner
The Great Discovery!
WALT: Conclude our investigation Our detective work shows: The rule is ALWAYS true! Every polygon has equal sides and vertices This helps us design perfect patterns We can use this rule for our Living History Trunk designs
Shape Detective Badge Challenge
Design your own polygon Count and label the sides and vertices Prove the rule works with your shape Share your polygon with the class Earn your Shape Detective Badge!