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manipulatives

Tangram activities

Build figures and reason about shape composition.

Quick answer

Tangram activities help children learn about shapes, spatial reasoning, and how to compose and decompose figures using seven geometric pieces.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to use tangram pieces to build different shapes and explain how smaller shapes can make bigger ones. Success signs:
  • You can identify the seven tangram pieces and their names.
  • You can make a shape using all seven pieces without overlapping.
  • You can describe how two or more small shapes make a larger shape.
  • You can create new designs and explain your thinking.

Why this matters

Tangram activities are great for learning how shapes fit together, which helps with understanding geometry, problem-solving, and creativity. You use these skills when you build with LEGO, arrange furniture in a room, play with puzzle games, or even when you're drawing pictures. These skills are important for future maths and science learning.

How it works

A tangram is a puzzle made of seven flat shapes that you can put together to make different figures. These pieces are called:
  • Two large triangles
  • One medium triangle
  • Two small triangles
  • One square
  • One parallelogram
You can use these pieces to make animals, people, objects, and even letters. The challenge is to use all seven pieces to make a shape without overlapping them.

Examples you can see

Let's look at how the tangram pieces can make a square. Example 1: Making a square
  • Take the two small triangles and place them together to make a square.
  • Now take the square piece and place it next to the small triangle square.
  • Put the medium triangle on top of these to make a bigger square.
Example 2: Making a bird
  • Use one large triangle for the body.
  • Use the other large triangle for the wings.
  • Use the small triangle for the beak.
  • Use the square for the tail.
  • Use the parallelogram for the legs.
Example 3: Making a cat
  • Use two large triangles for the ears.
  • Use the medium triangle for the head.
  • Use the small triangles for the eyes.
  • Use the square for the body.
  • Use the parallelogram for the tail.

Try it as a mini adventure

Adventure: Tangram Challenge You are a detective who has found a magical tangram puzzle in a treasure chest. The treasure map says that the puzzle will reveal a secret message if you solve it correctly. Step 1: Take out your seven tangram pieces and lay them on the table. Step 2: Try to make a shape of your choice. It could be a house, a flower, or an animal. Step 3: Draw your shape on paper and label each piece you used. Step 4: Show your friend or family member your creation and explain how you made it. Step 5: Try to make the same shape again, but this time, use a different way to arrange the pieces. Step 6: Look for patterns in your shapes. What pieces do you use most often? Step 7: If you get stuck, try to break your shape into smaller parts and see if you can make those parts with your tangram pieces.

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Forgetting to use all seven pieces.
    Why it happens: Sometimes children get excited and make a shape quickly without checking if they used all pieces.
    Fix: Count the pieces as you use them. Make sure you have one of each shape.
  • Mistake: Pieces overlapping or not fitting together.
    Why it happens: When children try to rush, they might not pay attention to how the pieces fit.
    Fix: Take your time. Look at how the edges of the pieces match up.
  • Mistake: Not thinking about how shapes are made.
    Why it happens: Children may focus only on making a shape, not on how it is built.
    Fix: Ask yourself, "What shapes did I use to make this?" and "How did they fit together?"
  • Mistake: Trying to make too complex a shape.
    Why it happens: Children may want to make something very fancy and get frustrated.
    Fix: Start with simple shapes like a square or triangle. Then try more complex ones.

Parent and carer guide

As a parent or carer, you can help by:
  • Setting up a quiet space for tangram play.
  • Encouraging your child to talk about their shapes and how they made them.
  • Letting your child try different arrangements and not worrying about "right" answers.
  • Using tangrams to talk about shapes, size, and space.
  • Looking for patterns in the shapes your child makes.
Remember: Tangrams are about creativity and exploration. It's okay if your child makes a shape that looks different from the examples. The goal is to learn about shapes and how they fit together.

Practice questions

  1. How many pieces are in a tangram set?
  2. What shape is made when you put two small triangles together?
  3. Which pieces can be used to make a square?
  4. Can you make a triangle using only one piece? Why or why not?
  5. How many triangles are in a tangram set?
Answers:
  1. Seven pieces
  2. A square
  3. The two small triangles and the square piece
  4. No, because a triangle is made from two or more pieces
  5. Five triangles

FAQ

What is a tangram?

A tangram is a puzzle made of seven flat shapes that you can put together to make different figures. These shapes are triangles, a square, and a parallelogram.

How do I start with tangrams?

Start by sorting the pieces and identifying each one. Then try to make simple shapes like squares or triangles before moving on to more complex figures.

Can I use tangrams to learn about fractions?

Yes! You can use tangrams to show how parts make a whole. For example, a small triangle is 1/4 of a large triangle.

Are tangrams good for learning geometry?

Yes! Tangrams help children understand shapes, symmetry, area, and how shapes can be combined and broken apart.

Where can I find tangram puzzles?

You can find printable tangram puzzles online, in puzzle books, or you can make your own using paper or wood.