Use both length and angle
A shape may need equal sides and a right angle, or fixed lengths and one measured angle.
measure with a ruler
measure with a protractor
Both parts matter in a precise construction.
Year 6
Draw 2-D shapes using given dimensions and angles
Use dimensions and angles to construct a 2-D shape accurately.
Lesson overview
Geometry - properties of shape
To draw a shape accurately, we need the correct side lengths and the correct angles. Rulers measure lengths and protractors help measure angles.
Check the finished shape
When the drawing is finished, check the sides and angles against the instructions.
| What to check | Example |
|---|---|
| side lengths | 5 cm |
| angles | 90° |
Accuracy comes from checking as well as drawing.
Worked example
Draw a triangle with sides 5 cm and 4 cm and one angle of 60°.
| Given information |
|---|
| 5 cm side |
| 4 cm side |
| 60° angle |
- Draw one side to the given length.
- Measure the given angle from one end.
- Draw the next side to the stated length.
- Join the final point to complete the triangle.
Try it
Check what is fixed before you start drawing: side lengths, angle sizes, or both.
Question 1
Which tool measures side length?
ruler
protractor
Question 2
Which tool measures an angle?
ruler
protractor
Question 3
To draw a shape accurately, which must be checked?
| Check |
|---|
| lengths |
| angles |
Question 4
Which statement is correct?
Question 5
Why check the drawing at the end?
Common mistakes
Watch for these when working through the lesson.
- Drawing freehand instead of measuring.
- Reading the protractor scale the wrong way.
- Forgetting to re-check the finished dimensions.
Related topics
These ideas fit closely with this lesson.
- Compare and classify geometric shapes.
- Recognise angles where they meet at a point or on a straight line.