In kindergarten through second grade, the emphasis is on qualitative, not quantitative, properties of geometric objects. They recognize squares and rectangles, but perhaps not that squares are a special case of rectangles. To enrich and develop their geometric thinking, children at these grade levels need to explore geometry using a variety of physical objects, drawings, and computer tools. They work with solids, pattern blocks, templates, geoboards, and computer drawing tools to develop their understanding of geometric concepts and their spatial sense. They construct models and drawings to experiment with orientation, position, and scale, and to develop visualization skills.
Students begin to develop a geometric vocabulary.
A sample unit on geometry for the second-grade level can be found in Chapter 17 of this Framework . In their study of spatial relationships , students focus on developing their understanding of objects in space. They describe and draw three-dimensional objects in different relative locations. They compare and contrast shapes, describing the shapes of the faces and bases of three-dimensional figures. They discuss symmetry and look for examples of symmetry in their environment.