Challenge your class to construct a definition for trapezoids. Looking at four examples and four non-examples, students individually create definitions and use them to classify an unknown shape. Allow for small group and whole-class discussions in order to reach agreement on a single definition for trapezoids. A great activity for identifying distinguishing characteristics of different shapes.

Concepts

shapes

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Additional Tags

catergorizing shapes, types of quadrilaterals, classifying shapes, defining shapes, math

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Pros

• Creating a definition of trapezoids develops students' critical thinking skills
• Non-examples strategically chosen to guide students toward a correct definition of trapezoids
• Uses collaboration to support learning about trapezoids

Cons

• Requires a prior understanding of quadrilaterals and parallel lines

Common Core

4.G.A.2 MP3 MP6 MP7