Year 1 Mathematics · AC9M1SP01
Shapes and objects can be compared and classified using observable features such as sides, corners, faces, curves and flat surfaces
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Shapes and objects can be compared and classified using observable features such as sides, corners, faces, curves and flat surfaces.
Learning routine: Make → Name features → Compare → Classify → Explain
Use shape features to explain your group.
Real objects may look like familiar shapes but also have 3D features.
Explain your thinking: Say what each part of the model represents, then explain why the answer or conclusion follows.
triangle: 3 sides rectangle: 4 sides circle: curved edge cube: flat faces
window → rectangle clock → circle box → prism/cube
Shape build Make a shape with sticks or paper and name its features. Model: 3 sticks → triangle
Feature sort Sort shapes by sides, corners, curves or faces. Model: curved / not curved
These curriculum examples extend the central model into varied contexts. They are learning contexts, not extra definitions to memorise.
classifying a collection of shapes, including different circles, ovals, regular and irregular shapes, triangles and quadrilaterals, saying what is the same about the shapes in a group and what is different between the groups
Try and explain: A group contains triangles of different sizes, colours and orientations. Which feature keeps them in the same group?
Each has three straight sides and three corners. Size, colour and turning do not change that classification.
selecting a shape from a small collection of shapes inside a bag and describing the shape by feel, so that others can name the shape and give reasons for their choice
Try and explain: A flat shape in a bag has a curved boundary and no corners. Could those clues alone distinguish a circle from an oval?
No. Both can fit those clues. More information is needed, such as whether it is stretched in one direction.
comparing the different objects that can be built out of the same number of blocks or centi-cubes and discussing the differences between them
Try and explain: Arrange four cubes in a tower, then rearrange them in a row. What stays the same and what changes?
There are still four cubes. The arrangement, overall height and overall length change.
exploring string games used in story telling by First Nations Australians; for example, Karda from the Yandruwandha Peoples of north-east South Australia, recognising, comparing, describing and classifying the shapes made by the string and their relationship to shapes and objects on Country/Place
Cultural safety: Use a community-approved source, name the specific Nation or community where the source does, and avoid presenting diverse First Nations knowledges as one generic tradition. Follow local cultural and intellectual property protocols before inviting community participation.
Classify shapes by their features rather than size, colour or orientation.
A square card is turned so that one corner points upward. Is it still a square?
Watch for this mistake: A shape's name does not change just because it is turned or coloured differently. Use its sides and corners as evidence.
A closed flat shape has three straight sides. What shape is it?
Count the sides all the way round.
A triangle.
How are a circle and a triangle different? Give a feature of each.
Compare their boundaries and corners.
A circle has a curved boundary and no corners. A triangle has three straight sides and three corners.
Key idea: Shapes and objects can be compared and classified using observable features such as sides, corners, faces, curves and flat surfaces.
Return to the concept model if an answer is uncertain. Use the model to explain, not just to guess.
Use the Practice Sheet for written or hands-on work, Practice for supported feedback, and Test when the student is ready to demonstrate independent mastery.
Shapes and objects can be compared and classified using observable features such as sides, corners, faces, curves and flat surfaces.
Learning routine: Make → Name features → Compare → Classify → Explain
AC9M1SP01: make, compare and classify familiar shapes; recognise familiar shapes and objects in the environment, identifying the similarities and differences between them
Explore optional teaching slide packs for classroom lessons and explanations at home.
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