What is a Polygon?

Fourth grade mathematicians have been super busy with all kinds of math concepts. This week, we have been reviewing and learning more about 2D shapes (specifically, polygons). We have learned the three attributes that we use to classify a shape as a polygon (it is a closed figure, it has only straight lines, and it has more than two sides). Then, we learned about the shapes we classify as polygons–triangles, quadrilaterals, pentagons, hexagons, etc. Along the way, we are learning the roots of these words, such as “tri-” means three, “lateral” means sides, and “quad” means four. We are using our ruler to measure and draw these shapes, incorporating what we are learning about fractions along the way, such as how to find “6 1/4 inches” on our ruler. At home, you can extend your child’s learning by having him/her identify polygons around your home and community. Use a ruler to measure the polygons you find, and then identify the perimeter and area of these shapes!

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