Nets of three-dimensional figures

Learning Objectives Define 'net' and 'three-dimensional figure' in their own words. Identify the faces, edges, and vertices of common three-dimensional figures. Recognize valid nets for cubes and rectangular prisms. Draw a net for a given cube or rectangular prism. Visualize how a two-dimensional net folds into a three-dimensional figure. Explain why a given two-dimensional shape is or is not a valid net for a specific three-dimensional figure. Have you ever unfolded a cardboard box to lay it flat? 📦 That flat shape is a 'net'! What kind of 3D shape do you think it used to be? In this lesson, we'll discover how flat, two-dimensional shapes can be folded to create three-dimensional figures like cubes and rectangular prisms. Understanding n...

TermDefinitionExample Three-Dimensional (3D) FigureA shape that has length, width, and height. It takes up space in the real world.A cube, a ball, a building, a rectangular prism. NetA two-dimensional (flat) shape that can be folded along its edges to form a three-dimensional figure.A cross shape made of 6 squares that folds into a cube. FaceA flat surface of a three-dimensional figure.A cube has 6 square faces. EdgeThe line segment where two faces of a three-dimensional figure meet.A cube has 12 edges. Vertex (plural: Vertices)A corner point where three or more edges of a three-dimensional figure meet.A cube has 8 vertices. CubeA three-dimensional figure with 6 identical square faces, 12 edges, and 8 vertices.A dice or a Rubik's Cube. Rectangular PrismA three-dimensional figure with...

The Net-Figure Match Rule A valid net must have the exact number of faces required for the three-dimensional figure it represents. For example, a cube has 6 faces, so its net must be made of 6 squares. A rectangular prism also has 6 faces, so its net must be made of 6 rectangles (or squares). The No Gaps, No Overlaps Rule When a net is folded, all its faces must meet perfectly without any gaps or overlaps to form the complete three-dimensional figure. Imagine cutting out the net and folding it. If parts of the figure are missing or if faces cover each other, it's not a valid net. The Connectivity Rule All faces in a net must be connected in a way that allows them to fold up and enclose a space. Faces that would be opposite each other in the 3D figure should not...