What this lesson teaches
This activity develops spatial awareness and understanding of geometric shapes.
Math in Action
Can you finish build shapes with sticks in about 20 min?
Build Shapes with Sticks
You will this activity develops spatial awareness and understanding of geometric shapes.
Duration20 min
Age GroupAges 7–10
DifficultyBeginner
SubjectMath
See how this hands-on lesson works
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What you need
- Toothpicks
- Straws
- Clay or playdough
How the activity runs
- Gather sticks, such as toothpicks or straws.
- Decide which shape you want to build.
- Start connecting the sticks to form the shape.
The learning connection
Hands-on activities engage children and make learning fun. By building shapes, they can better visualize and understand geometry concepts.
Try it with your learner
1. Take 10 craft sticks and lay them on the table. 2. Use the ruler to measure and cut string into lengths for each shape. 3. Start by creating a triangle using three sticks and secure with string. 4. Next, build a square using four sticks and tie the corners with string. 5. Try making a rectangle with four sticks and compare it to the square. 6. What did you notice about the shapes you created?