Get your students thinking like shape scientists with the How Do I Move? 3D Object Worksheet! This engaging and hands-on activity invites learners to investigate how different 3D objects behave when pushed, rolled, slid, or stacked—encouraging critical thinking and geometry knowledge in a fun and practical way.

This worksheet is ideal for consolidating students' understanding of the properties of 3D objects in a real-world context. By handling physical shapes or models, students explore which movements are possible for each object and tick the relevant boxes to show what they observe. It’s a perfect way to combine active learning with mathematical thinking.

Use this resource during your maths rotations, as a partner investigation, or as part of a low-prep lesson on 3D shape properties. It’s flexible, interactive, and a great way to support your geometry outcomes with minimal materials and prep time.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Identify common 3D objects by name and shape
• ✅ Explore physical properties related to movement (roll, slide, stack)
• ✅ Record observations using checkboxes and structured prompts
• ✅ Build connections between shape features and real-world behaviour
• ✅ Develop language and reasoning skills in geometry contexts

What’s Included:

• 1 worksheet focusing on 3D object movement investigation
• Table format for students to tick if the object can roll, slide, or stack
• Clear and simple layout to support independent or guided work

Materials Needed:

• Printed copies of the How Do I Move? 3D Object Worksheet
• Pencils or markers
• A variety of physical 3D objects (e.g. cone, cube, cylinder, sphere, rectangular prism)
• Optional: trays or flat surfaces to test movement

How to Use:

1. Introduce or review different 3D objects and their names with the class.
2. Demonstrate each type of movement: rolling, sliding, and stacking.
3. Distribute the worksheet and provide students with a selection of 3D models.
4. Have students test each object and tick the boxes according to what movements are possible.
5. Come together as a class to reflect on which features (flat faces, curved surfaces) affect movement.

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Use in small group maths rotations as a guided or independent station
• 💡 Pair students and encourage discussion and predictions before testing
• 💡 Incorporate into an inquiry-based learning unit on shapes and materials
• 💡 Use as an observation task after a hands-on sorting activity
• 💡 Combine with a physical education session to demonstrate movement in space

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Laminate the worksheets for reuse with dry-erase markers
• 💛 Add more objects from around the classroom for variety and fun
• 💛 Encourage students to use shape vocabulary while testing (e.g. “It has a curved surface”)
• 💛 Use the completed worksheet as a discussion point or assessment sample

How Do I Move? 3D Object Worksheet is a fun and practical way to explore 3D shape properties while getting your students moving, observing, and thinking like real mathematicians!