3D shapes
Nets
A net is a flat (2D) shape that folds up to make a 3D shape. The number and shape of the faces tell you which solid a net makes.
A net of 6 squares folds up into a cube
Matching nets to shapes
1. Count the flat faces in the net and note their shapes. 2. Imagine folding it up. 3. Match the faces to a solid — for example 6 squares make a cube.
Worked examples
Net of a cube
- The net is made of 6 equal squares.
- Folded up, each square becomes one face of a cube.
Answer: 6 squares fold into a cube.
Net of a triangular prism
- The net has 2 triangles and 3 rectangles.
- Folded up, the triangles are the ends and the rectangles are the sides.
Answer: 2 triangles + 3 rectangles fold into a triangular prism.
Where you see this in real life
- A flattened cardboard box is the net of a cuboid.
- Packaging is designed as a net, then folded and glued.
- Making models by cutting out and folding nets.
Key words
- Net
- A flat shape that folds up to make a 3D shape.
- Face
- A flat surface of a 3D shape.
- 3D shape
- A solid shape with length, width and height, like a cube.