Compound Figure from Pattern Blocks

Topic

Polygons

Definition

A compound figure, also known as a composite figure, is a shape that is made up of two or more simple geometric figures such as triangles, rectangles, squares, parallelograms, trapezoids, and circles.

Description

In geometry, understanding compound figures is essential because they often appear in various mathematical problems and real-world applications. A compound figure combines multiple simple shapes to form a more complex structure. Pattern blocks are a versatile tool that can be used to create these compound figures. A standard set of pattern blocks includes six shapes: green equilateral triangles, blue rhombuses, beige narrow rhombuses, red trapezoids, yellow hexagons, and orange squares. These blocks allow students to explore how shapes can be composed and decomposed, enhancing their spatial reasoning and problem-solving skills. For instance, a red trapezoid can be formed by combining three green triangles, while a yellow hexagon can be created using six green triangles. By using pattern blocks, students can visually and tangibly understand the relationships between different geometric shapes, making it easier to calculate areas and perimeters of compound figures. This hands-on approach to learning geometry fosters a deeper comprehension of geometric concepts and their practical applications.

For a complete collection of terms related to polygons click on this link: Polygons Collection.