- Definition
A polygon is a flat shape with three or more straight sides that are all connected, like a triangle or a square.
A stop sign is a polygon because it has eight straight sides that all connect.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: A polygon is like a shape you make with straight pretzel sticks that all connect.
Ask your child: Can you trace a shape in the air that has only straight sides?
Common mix-up: Kids may think any closed shape, like a circle, is a polygon. A polygon must be made of only straight lines that connect.
Examples
- A square window pane is a polygon.
- A slice of pizza is often cut into a triangle, which is a polygon.
polygon is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗
