Geometric Solids
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Geometric Solids | |
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Sensorial - Visual Discrimination of Form | |
Level | Primary |
Age | 3.5 - 6 |
Prerequisites | discrimination of form Pink Tower Knobbed Cylinders Broad Stair |
Materials | Ten geometric solids: sphere cube cone cylinder ovoid ellipsoid rectangular prism triangular prism square based pyramid triangular based pyramid |
Use of this material makes the child familiar with 3 dimensional geometric shapes and teaches their names. This activity prepares the child for geometry.
Presentations
Introduction to the solids
- Select three solids and carry them to a mat or table (these can be carried in a small basket).
- Name the first solid shape. Allow the child plenty of time to look at and feel the solid.
- Present the other two objects in the same way.
- Do a Three Period Lesson.
Identification by touch alone
Introduction to the bases
Solids with bases
Points of Interest
Control of Error
Variations and Extensions
Language
- A triangular based pyramid can also be called a tetrahedron.
- An ovoid is smaller at on end (like an egg), an ellipsoid has ends that are the same.
Material
The triangular based pyramid can also be called a tetrahedron. The difference between the ovoid and the ellipsoid is that the ovoid is smaller at one end like an egg.
Make Your Own
This material would be difficult to make on your own without some pretty good woodworking skills. There are, however, similar, far less expensive sets of geometric solids for sale online that were designed to be used in math classrooms. These are a bit smaller than the Montessori version. Neither set has an ovoid, but as the author of one blog pointed out, an ovoid might be easy to find in a craft store after Easter.
Where to Buy
Geometric Solids Sets
Affordable Montessori $49.00
Albanesi $206.00
Alison's $25.00 (unpainted wood)
Geometric Solids with Bases
A Plus Montessori $49.95
Absorbent Montessori $66.00
Adena $42.85
Affordable Montessori $79.00
Alison's $60.00
Alison's $117.00 (premium)
Alison's $99.00 (unpainted wood)
Bases
A Plus Montessori $9.45
Affordable Montessori $12.00
Alison's $18.00
Alison's $10.00 (no stands)
Three-Part Cards
Affordable Montessori $29.00
Alison's $12.00
Alison's $19.00 (no triangular prism)
Alison's $9.99 (not laminated)(no triangular prism)
Definition Cards
Alison's $22.00 (not cut out)(no triangular prism)
Alison's $15.00 (not laminated)(not cut out)(no triangular prism)
Basket
Albanesi $21.00
Box
Albanesi $23.00