3D Shapes
3D shapes have three dimensions — length, width and height. We describe them using faces, edges and vertices. 3D shapes are everywhere in the real world!
Faces, Edges and Vertices (FEV)
Face
A flat side of a 3D shape
Edge
Where two faces meet (a line)
Vertex
A corner where edges meet (plural: vertices)
Cube
Faces
Edges
Vertices
All faces are squares. Example: a dice.
Rectangular Prism
Faces
Edges
Vertices
Faces are rectangles. Example: a cereal box.
Triangular Prism
Faces
Edges
Vertices
2 triangle faces + 3 rectangle faces. Example: Toblerone box.
Square Pyramid
Faces
Edges
Vertices
Square base + 4 triangle sides. Example: Egyptian pyramids.
Sphere
Face
Edges
Vertices
Curved surface, perfectly round. Example: a ball.
Cylinder
Faces
Edges
Vertices
2 circle faces + 1 curved face. Example: a tin can.
Prisms vs Pyramids
Prisms
- ✓ Two identical end faces (the base shape)
- ✓ Rectangular side faces
- ✓ Named after their base shape
- Examples: triangular prism, rectangular prism, cube
Pyramids
- ✓ One base shape
- ✓ Triangular sides meeting at a point (apex)
- ✓ Named after their base shape
- Examples: square pyramid, triangular pyramid
Key Vocabulary
Knowledge Check
Question 1
How many faces does a cube have?
Question 2
Which 3D shape has NO edges and NO vertices?
Question 3
A triangular prism has how many faces altogether?
Question 4
What is the difference between a prism and a pyramid?
Lesson Summary
- ✓3D shapes have faces (flat surfaces), edges (where faces meet) and vertices (corners).
- ✓Cube: 6 faces, 12 edges, 8 vertices. Sphere: 1 curved face, 0 edges, 0 vertices.
- ✓Prisms have two identical bases and rectangular sides. Pyramids have one base and triangular faces meeting at a point.
- ✓3D shapes are named after the shape of their base (triangular prism, square pyramid, etc.).