Kindergarten · Geometry
K.G.A.1: Describe shapes in the environment
K.G.A.1 is a kindergarten Common Core math standard in Geometry. Here’s what it really covers, and how you can help your students learn it.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
The standard
Describe objects in the environment using names of shapes, and describe the relative positions of these objects using terms such as above, below, beside, in front of, behind, and next to.
In plain words
Describe shapes in the environment.
Sample questions from student practice
These questions from Bobby's Math Club are the kinds of questions your students will see. You can try answering them to see what a student might see.
Question 1 of 3
What shape is a slice of pizza?
- Triangle
- Circle
- Square
Where students can get stuck
- Using "beside" and "behind" as if they mean the same thing, so a chair next to the table is "behind" it.
- Calling a soup can a circle or a box a square, naming a flat face instead of the solid shape.
- Describing position only from their own side, not seeing that a ball in front of a tree is behind it from the other side.
Effective teaching strategies
- Place a stuffed animal above, below, beside, in front of, and behind a chair, and have students describe each spot using that position word.
- Have students point out shapes around the room, such as a rectangular door or window, and name the shape they see before saying where it is.
- Put a ball in front of a box as the class sees it, then have a student stand on the other side and say where the ball is, so students see that front and behind depend on where you stand.
Units that teach this standard
Find where K.G.A.1 lands in the program you teach. Each unit has a guide written for families. Unit names and order vary between editions and districts, so your school’s own materials have the exact sequence.
Bridges in Mathematics
enVision Mathematics
Eureka Math
Eureka Math²
Everyday Mathematics
Go Math!
i-Ready Classroom Mathematics
Illustrative Mathematics
Math Expressions
Don’t see your curriculum? Contact Bobby and we’ll see if we can help!
Share it with families
Families can read Spotting shapes and saying where things are for a plain-language look at this skill, with three questions to try together and ideas for helping at home.
Help every student practice geometry at home
In Bobby's Math Club, students practice at just the right level, with a hint when they need one, a clear explanation after every question, and kid-friendly videos. Unlimited practice is free for every family.
See how it works for teachers
Written by Robert “Bobby” Barnett
Bobby is an award-winning math teacher, the author of Meet Every Learner’s Needs, and the father of two elementary-school math learners. He uses Bobby’s Math Club with his own kids a few times every week. Learn more or contact Bobby.