ACTIVITY 1
1.1 Define the concept of 2D shapes.
A two-dimensional (2D) shape is a flat shape that has only two dimensions: length and width (or
height). It is not a concrete object that you can touch because it does not have thickness or depth.
You can only see and identify it (TMN3704, Study Guide, p. 10).
1.2 Identify and explain any two key concepts from the definition of 2D shapes given in (1.1).
(These terms are central to the main points of the description of 2-D shapes)
Two key concepts from the definition of 2D shapes are:
Two Dimensions (Length and Width): This is the defining characteristic of a 2D shape. It
means that the shape can be measured in two directions, such as horizontally (length) and
vertically (height). Unlike a three-dimensional object, it has no depth or thickness, which is
what makes it "flat." A triangle, for example, has a base and a height, but you cannot measure
its "thickness" (TMN3704, Study Guide, p. 10).
Not Concrete (Flat): This concept highlights that a 2D shape is an abstract concept or an idea of
a shape rather than a physical object. The study guide explicitly states that a 2D shape is "not
concrete" and that you "can only see and identify it, but not touch" it. This is what distinguishes
a 2D shape, like a triangle drawn on paper, from a 3D object, like a triangular piece of bread.
The 2D shape is a representation, while the 3D object has a physical presence you can interact
with (TMN3704, Study Guide, p. 10).
1.3 Carefully study the details of the topic as presented in the CAPS document and then answer
the following questions:
1.3.1 In which term(s) is the topic Properties of 2D shapes taught in Grade 5?
The topic "Properties of 2D shapes" is taught in Term 2 for Grade 5. This aligns with the typical
sequence for Space and Shape (Geometry) content in the Intermediate Phase .
1.3.2 How much time is allocated to the topic Properties of 2D Shapes in Grade 5?
The specific time allocation for the subtopic "Properties of 2D Shapes" within the Space and Shape
content area is detailed in the tables on pages 24-26 of the CAPS document for Grade 5 . The general
weighting for the entire Space and Shape (Geometry) content area is 15% for Grade 5 .