Hands-On Mathematics Activity Strengthens Geometry and Spatial Reasoning
Raipur: Students of Grade 4-I Cambridge at N.H. Goel World School explored three-dimensional shapes through an engaging Mathematics activity using Jodo straws.
The students first constructed individual squares and then arranged them in different two-dimensional patterns. They created six-square nets and investigated which arrangements could be folded to form a closed cube.
They also experimented with pentominoes, which are shapes made from five connected squares, and explored how suitable arrangements can represent an open cube.
The activity helped students understand:
- The relationship between two-dimensional nets and three-dimensional shapes
- Which six-square arrangements form a closed cube
- The difference between closed and open cubes
- How pentominoes are constructed
- Spatial visualisation and geometric reasoning
By building, rearranging and testing the shapes themselves, students learned through observation and discovery. The collaborative activity also encouraged creativity, problem-solving, communication and teamwork.
The experience reflected the Cambridge Primary Mathematics approach of making abstract concepts meaningful through practical exploration.
Learning becomes powerful when students can hold an idea in their hands—and Grade 4-I built its understanding one straw at a time.
