Make shape classification fun and interactive with our 2D & 3D Sorting Cards! These versatile cards can be used in a variety of ways to help students recognise and categorise 2D shapes and 3D objects with confidence.

Each card features a clearly illustrated shape or object that students can sort under the correct heading—2D or 3D. Use them for whole-class demonstrations, small group sorting activities, or as an eye-catching classroom display to reinforce geometry vocabulary and understanding.

2D & 3D Sorting Cards are easy to prep and perfect for maths rotations, group work, or hands-on revision. This flexible resource supports both kinaesthetic and visual learners as they explore the properties of shapes and solids.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Identify and classify 2D shapes and 3D objects
• ✅ Use visual clues to distinguish between flat and solid forms
• ✅ Build geometry vocabulary and reasoning skills
• ✅ Engage in hands-on learning through sorting and discussion
• ✅ Use classroom visuals to reinforce mathematical concepts

What’s Included:

• 2D & 3D shape/object sorting cards
• 2D and 3D category header cards
• Clear, print-friendly layout with full-colour illustrations

Materials Needed:

• Printed sorting cards and headers
• Scissors
• Blu-tack, magnets, or Velcro dots (for wall or board sorting)
• Optional: laminator for durability and repeated use

How to Use:

• • Print and cut out the sorting cards and headings
• • Introduce the difference between 2D shapes and 3D objects
• • Invite students to work in groups or as a class to sort the cards under the correct heading
• • Display the sorted cards on a whiteboard or wall as an ongoing reference
• • Revisit the activity as a revision game or centre task during your geometry unit

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Use as an interactive whiteboard activity during shape introduction lessons
• 💡 Add to your geometry or maths rotations for group sorting tasks
• 💡 Create a reusable display with laminated cards and Velcro dots
• 💡 Pair with real-life shape examples for matching and discussion
• 💡 Incorporate into a maths warm-up or review game

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Use a document camera to model sorting before students try it independently
• 💛 Encourage students to explain their reasoning using shape features (e.g. edges, faces, curves)
• 💛 Store the cards in labelled envelopes or containers for easy access and reuse
• 💛 Extend the task by asking students to group shapes by other properties such as number of sides or edges

2D & 3D Sorting Cards are a fun, flexible, and visual way to help students consolidate their understanding of shapes—perfect for displays, group work, or interactive lessons!