K-5 friendly lesson
One small step at a time.Read the idea, try the activity, and celebrate each win as you go.
Draw polygons
Become a shape artist! π¨ A polygon is a special kind of shape with all straight sides. Let's learn to draw them by connecting the dots!
Do this: Read the concept below, then try the quiz or activity.
Lesson 168 of 186
Concept
A polygon is a flat, 2D shape that is fully closed and made of only straight lines. A circle is not a polygon because it's curved. An open shape is not a polygon because it's not closed.
How to Draw Polygons:
1. Use a ruler! This is the best way to make sure your lines are perfectly straight.
2. Connect the dots (vertices): A polygon is defined by its corners, or 'vertices'.
* A triangle has 3 vertices. Place 3 dots on your paper and connect them with straight lines to make a triangle.
* A quadrilateral has 4 vertices. Place 4 dots and connect them.
* A pentagon has 5 vertices.
* A hexagon has 6 vertices.
3. Make sure it's closed: The last line you draw should connect back to the first dot you started with. There should be no openings.Examples of Polygons: * Triangles (3 sides) * Quadrilaterals (4 sides - includes squares, rectangles, etc.) * Pentagons (5 sides) * Hexagons (6 sides)
Key Idea: The secret to polygons is three rules: 1. Flat shape. 2. Straight sides only. 3. Fully closed. If a shape follows all three rules, it's a polygon!
Try it
Practice: Draw polygons.