Reasoning
Shape and Space - Always, Sometimes, or Never? Prove It
Progression Continua
Element
Reasoning
f
The learner
Uses properties of shapes to classify them.
g
The learner
Uses examples and non-examples to test classifications of shapes.
h
The learner
Justifies classifications of shapes using their properties.
i
The learner
Analyses and evaluates reasoning about classifications of shapes.
What learners can typically do in this task
f
The learner
Identifies properties (faces, vertices, curved surfaces) to decide whether a statement could be true
g
The learner
Uses examples and counterexamples to decide whether a statement is sometimes true.
h
The learner
Explains why a statement is always, sometimes or never true using shape properties.
i
The learner
Challenges incorrect assumptions (e.g. appearance vs definition) and defends conclusions.
Teacher Scaffolding Questions Examples Prompts
-
Does one example prove ‘always’?
-
What would make this statement false?
-
Is this about how it looks or how it’s defined?
-
Can you think of a shape that breaks this rule?
