Tangrams history

Quick answer

Tangrams are ancient Chinese puzzles made of seven flat shapes that can be arranged to form many different pictures and designs. They have been used for over 200 years to teach maths, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will understand how tangrams work and be able to use the seven shapes to make new pictures and solve puzzles.

• You can name the seven tangram shapes
• You can arrange the shapes to make a square or other designs
• You can explain how tangrams help with maths learning
• You can create your own tangram picture

Why this matters

Learning about tangrams helps you understand shapes, sizes, and how pieces fit together. You use maths when you think about angles, area, and symmetry. Tangrams are used in schools to teach geometry, and they're fun to play with. They also help you think creatively and solve problems. You might use tangrams in art class, during maths lessons, or just for fun at home.

How it works

Tangrams are puzzles made of seven shapes that fit together to make a big square. These shapes are:

1. One large triangle
2. One medium triangle
3. Two small triangles
4. One square
5. One parallelogram

You can take these seven pieces and make many different pictures, like animals, people, or objects. Each piece is a different size and shape, but they all fit together perfectly.

Examples you can see

Imagine you have a square made of paper. If you cut it into seven pieces in a special way, you get a tangram set. Here is how the pieces are made:

Try drawing a square and cutting it into these pieces. Then, see if you can make a cat or a house with them.

Try it as a mini adventure

Adventure: Build a Tangram Zoo!

Imagine you are a zookeeper who needs to build animal homes using tangram shapes. You have one large triangle for the roof, one medium triangle for the front, and two small triangles for the ears. You have a square for the body and a parallelogram for the tail. Use your seven shapes to make a tiger, a bird, or a rabbit. How many different animals can you make?

Step 1: Take your seven tangram pieces and lay them out on a table.

Step 2: Try to make a shape that looks like a tiger's head.

Step 3: Use the large triangle for the head, small triangles for the ears, and square for the body.

Step 4: Add the parallelogram for the tail and the medium triangle for the nose.

Step 5: Draw your animal and see if you can make another one!

Common mistakes

• Mistake: Thinking that the shapes must be arranged in a specific way.
• Why it happens: Some people think there is only one correct answer.
• Fix: Remember that tangrams can be used to make many different pictures.
• Mistake: Not using all seven pieces in one picture.
• Why it happens: It can be hard to fit all pieces together.
• Fix: Try again and make sure all pieces are used.
• Mistake: Confusing the shapes with each other.
• Why it happens: The small triangles look very similar.
• Fix: Label each piece or use different colours to tell them apart.

Parent and carer guide

Help your child explore tangrams by:

1. Getting a set of tangram pieces or making your own with paper
2. Encouraging them to try making different shapes and animals
3. Asking questions like "How many pieces did you use?" or "Can you make a house?"
4. Letting them create their own designs and stories
5. Not worrying if they don't get it right away – it's a fun challenge!

Remember, the goal is not to get the "right" answer, but to explore, play, and learn about shapes and space. You can also make a tangram game together using cardboard or thick paper. Just cut out the shapes and let your child play with them.

Practice questions

1. How many pieces are in a tangram set?
2. What shape is made by two small triangles?
3. Which shape is the largest in a tangram set?
4. Can you make a square using all seven tangram pieces?
5. What is the name of the shape that looks like a diamond?

Answers:

1. Seven pieces
2. A large triangle
3. The large triangle
4. Yes
5. Parallelogram

FAQ

What is a tangram?

A tangram is a Chinese puzzle made of seven flat shapes that can be arranged to form many different pictures and designs.

How old are tangrams?

Tangrams have been around for over 200 years. They were first made in China and then became popular in other countries.

Can I make my own tangrams?

Yes! You can draw a square on paper, cut it into seven pieces, and make your own tangram set.

What skills do tangrams teach?

Tangrams help with problem-solving, creativity, understanding shapes, and spatial thinking.

Are tangrams used in schools?

Yes, many schools use tangrams to teach geometry and to make learning fun and hands-on.