Drawing 3-Dimensional Figures

As part of our preparation for the TAKS test, the students have been studying 3-D shapes and plane figures. In the past I have noticed that although students may be able to identify 3-D shapes using real models, they struggle to name them on the TAKS math benchmarks. In an effort to help students recognize how 3-dimensional shapes are represented on paper (with dotted lines to show depth), we decided to draw the shapes ourselves.

First, we listed the types of three-dimensional figures that are commonly seen on the math TAKS tests. We folded our paper so that each shape had a box and labeled the boxes with the names of the figures.
Then, we set out to draw each shape using colored pencils. Some were pretty easy (the kids are experts at drawing cubes!) and others proved to be a challenge even for the teacher! I needed LOTS of help and suggestions from students to get my triangular prism to look right! : )
In the end, 100% of the students were able to identify the 3-dimensional shapes when they were presented in written form. WOW!
What artists!