Let's Explore 2D Shapes is a hands-on and curriculum-aligned resource designed to support early learners in identifying, naming and describing common 2D shapes. With a clear visual format and accompanying assessment rubric, this resource offers a structured yet flexible way to gather insights into student understanding of shape properties, perfect for guided groups, one-on-one assessment or small group rotations.

Students engage with a variety of shape-based tasks that encourage recognition of features such as sides, corners and curved or straight edges. Linked to the AC9MFSP01 curriculum objective, this activity helps students describe 2D shapes using everyday language and mathematical vocabulary while giving educators a clear tool for recording observations and learning progress.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Identify and name common 2D shapes such as circles, triangles, squares and rectangles
• ✅ Describe shape properties using terms like sides, corners, curved or straight edges
• ✅ Develop confidence in using geometric and everyday language to discuss shapes
• ✅ Demonstrate understanding through hands-on shape creation and verbal explanation
• ✅ Provide assessment opportunities using visual and observational tools

What’s Included:

• 2 x shape recognition and description worksheet options
• Assessment Rubric aligned with AC9MFSP01 for teacher observations
• Templates for shape creation using stamps, stickers or stencils
• Instructions for flexible implementation and differentiation
• Suitable for Foundation students or Early Years settings

Materials Needed:

• Printed worksheet pages (on regular or thick paper for reuse)
• Shape stamps, stickers, stencils or drawing tools
• Optional: 2D shape blocks or manipulatives for tactile exploration
• Pencils, crayons or markers
• Assessment Rubric for teacher use

How to Use:

• Choose the appropriate worksheet version based on your classroom needs
• Have students create each shape using stamps, stickers or drawn representations
• As they work, ask students to name each shape aloud
• Prompt students to describe shape properties using terms like “sides,” “corners,” “curved,” or “straight”
• Use the Assessment Rubric to record student responses, including names given to each shape and noted features

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Use during guided maths sessions for targeted assessment of shape understanding
• 💡 Set up as a rotation station with shape blocks or manipulatives
• 💡 Include as part of a portfolio task to document student progress in geometry

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Let students personalise their experience by choosing their own colours, stamps or stickers to create the shapes
• 💛 Select the worksheet version that best suits your learning goals; repeat the task at intervals to track progress
• 💛 Send a copy home with families to help reinforce shape recognition in everyday contexts

Let's Explore 2D Shapes is a practical and engaging tool for assessing early geometry understanding. It combines hands-on interaction with meaningful discussion, helping students explore shape concepts while giving teachers a clear picture of learning in action.