Extension
Working with dimensions l Constructing nets
Constructing nets
For this activity you need to know how to:
• measure 2-dimensional shapes
• identify 3-dimensional shapes
• work with scale
• make a net.
If you need some assistance, discuss your options with your teacher.
Remember:
A net is a 2-dimensional plan that can be made into a 3 dimensional shape.
For example, a cardboard box can be unfolded to form a flat 2D net (with flaps).
Materials needed:
ruler, protractor, pencil, scissors, an A4 sheet of paper (copy paper) and sticky tape
The image below shows how a 3-dimensional shape can become a 2-dimensional net.
top
back
side
base
side
front
© WestOne Services 2010
COMM1085
Page 1 of 7
Extension
Working with dimensions l Constructing nets
Using the steps below, try constructing a net for a rectangular prism with the
following dimensions:
length = 7 cm
width = 5 cm
height = 3 cm
3 cm
5 cm
7 cm
How to construct a net for a rectangular prism.
Step 1:
Draw a sketch and label the bottom, sides and top of the prism and
mark in measurements.
Step 2:
Add the measurements up along the whole length and width of your net
and check that it will fit onto your sheet of paper or cardboard.
Step 3:
Accurately draw the net. Use your ruler to mark out measurements and
the protractor to make sure that the angles are 90 degrees.
Step 4:
Once you are happy with the net, cut it out and fold along the lines.
© WestOne Services 2010
COMM1085
Page 2 of 7
Extension
Working with dimensions l Constructing nets
Does your net form the shape shown in the image on page 2?
If yes – excellent!
To show your teacher how well your construction has worked carry out one of
the following:
•
•
•
Take a digital photo and send it via email.
Show it via webcam.
Snip along the sides where the tape attaches the model together so it folds out into
a net again and mail it.
If no – Have a look at the following examples of possible nets for this activity.
© WestOne Services 2010
COMM1085
Page 3 of 7
Extension
Working with dimensions l Constructing nets
3 cm
side
© WestOne Services 2010
7 cm
3 cm
base
5 cm
front
3 cm
top
5 cm
back
3 cm
COMM1085
side
Page 4 of 7
Extension
Working with dimensions l Constructing nets
7 cm
base
5 cm
5 cm
front
3 cm
top
5 cm
back
3 cm
side
3 cm
side
© WestOne Services 2010
COMM1085
Page 5 of 7
Extension
Working with dimensions l Constructing nets
7 cm
3 cm
base
5 cm
front
3 cm
top
5 cm
back
3 cm
side
5 cm
side
© WestOne Services 2010
COMM1085
Page 6 of 7
Extension
Working with dimensions l Constructing nets
3 cm
side
7 cm
base
5 cm
5 cm
© WestOne Services 2010
front
3 cm
top
5 cm
back
3 cm
COMM1085
side
Page 7 of 7