Classifying Quadrilaterals – Make It

Mat: Classifying Quadrilaterals

Grade Guidance: Grades 3–5.

Focus: Construct and justify quadrilaterals from their attributes.

Try the Activity:

1. Select a shape on the mat and describe its defining attributes.
2. Build it on a tabletop with strips or craft sticks, or draw it. Check that four sides join to form a closed figure.
3. Compare the construction with the required side and angle properties. Use a right-angle reference when needed.
4. Rotate the model and explain why it is still the same kind of shape.

Worked Example: To build a square, use four equal-length sides and check four right angles. Four equal sticks alone can also form a nonsquare rhombus.

Quick Check: Why does a closed figure with four equal sides not necessarily make a square? Its angles may not all be right angles.

Adapt: Provide a partly completed model. Extend by making two different quadrilaterals with the same four equal strips.

Reflect: Choose a classroom use and one question that will reveal student understanding. Invite students to explain the movement and record an equation, diagram, or sentence.