Perceiving a 3-dimensional (3D) diagram on a 2-dimensional (2D) surface or plane can be a challenging endeavor for students at the elementary or primary grade levels. Adding to this challenge are the intricacies present in understanding the processes involved in geometric problems of such a nature. To ease the comprehension of these processes,…

Using the correct materials and manipulatives appropriately allows the richness of geometrical concepts to be fully investigated to enable students to explore and reason about shapes. This article explores some of the key ideas involved in learning about two dimensional shapes and discusses how materials can be used to support learning.

As a parent, the author stepped into his child's class on a Friday morning to a room buzzing with activity. Parents walked around the room, coffee and bagel in hand, reading stories that their child (and others) had drafted, revised, written, and illustrated. Students eagerly shared their stories and drawings, cherishing the comments and praise…