Defining Shapes

Grade 1 Math | Geometry Topic 1

Grade 1Common Core 1.G.A.115 minutes
Back to Geometry

Learning Objectives

  • Identify different shapes by their defining attributes
  • Distinguish between defining and non-defining attributes
  • Describe shapes using mathematical vocabulary

What are Defining Shapes?

Shapes have special features that make them unique. These features are called defining attributes. Defining attributes are the things that make a shape what it is - like the number of sides or corners.

Shape Gallery

Click on shapes to explore them!

Defining Attributes Include:

  • Number of sides
  • Number of corners (vertices)
  • Whether sides are straight or curved
  • Whether corners are sharp or round

Non-Defining Attributes Include:

  • Color
  • Size
  • Position or orientation
  • Texture or pattern

A blue triangle and a red triangle are both triangles! Color doesn't change the shape.