What Are 3D Nets?

3D nets are a flattened-out version of a 3D shape that can be cut out, folded, and adhered together to create a model of that particular 3D shape.

Sometimes, students struggle to visually construct a three-dimensional object in their mind when looking at a net. This skill requires a certain degree of spatial awareness and can take quite a lot of practice to master!

Explore Correct and Incorrect 3D Nets

This activity requires students to analyse a series of nets, then decide whether or not the net will ‘work’ (that is, create a 3D object when folded).

The pack includes correct and incorrect nets of:

• regular and irregular pyramids
• regular and irregular prisms
• a cylinder
• a cone
• a regular dodecahedron.

How to Make 3D Nets

Some students in your class may be able to determine whether or not a particular net will work simply by looking at it! As previously mentioned, this skill takes practice and may come more easily to some learners than others!

For those who have not yet mastered this spatial awareness technique, it is perfectly acceptable to allow these students to physically manipulate each net to see whether or not it creates a 3D object. To make these 3D nets, follow these simple instructions.

1. Print copies of the net you require. Cardboard works better than paper.
2. Cut around the outside of the net. Be sure to cut around the flaps, too!
3. Fold the flaps along the solid lines.
4. Fold along the other solid lines.
5. Use glue or tape to adhere the flaps to the corresponding faces.
6. You have a completed 3D object!

Download This and Other Great 3D Shape Activities!

Use the Download button to access these handy 3D net templates.

Looking for other resources to teach 3D shapes to your students? We can help!

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