They then choose an illustration, identify the geometric shapes pictured, and trace and label those shapes. The second part of the literature connection with this book involves identifying the characteristics of a pyramid, then building a pyramid themselves. Throughout the resource book, students are asked to explain, orally and in writing, their understanding of shapes and angles. One activity involves mystery shapes which are used to initiate a discussion of geometric vocabulary. This process is continued until a fourth clue is revealed, so that the shape can be identified.
Students then write mystery clues about shape of their choice.
The ultimate challenge is to write the fewest clues possible to allow others to guess the shape. Suggestions for assessment include an evaluation checklist to record each student's progress in the areas of math concepts, strategy development, and communications skills. This book contains reproducible blackline masters and a bibliography of compatible literature materials.