The note
How schools teach it now
Nets of 3D shapes are taught in Year 5 and 6 maths. The 11+ strategy: find which faces end up opposite, because opposite faces can never be seen side by side on a cube. Then check which way any arrows or patterns point.
5-minute kitchen-table activity
Cut the front, back and sides off a cereal box, or draw six squares in a cross on card. Draw a different symbol on each square, fold it into a cube and tape it. Before folding, guess which symbols will end up opposite.
Worked example
A cross-shaped net has four squares in a column, numbered 1 to 4 from the top, and one square either side of square 2. Which square is opposite square 1?
- On a cross-shaped net, squares separated by one square in a straight line end up opposite.
- Square 1 and square 3 have square 2 between them.
- So 2 is opposite 4, and the two side squares are opposite each other.
Answer: Square 3
Common mistakes to watch for
- Choosing a cube that shows two opposite faces next to each other.
- Forgetting that arrows and patterns can turn as the net folds.
- Trying to fold everything in their head without spotting opposites first.
Encouragement
- Try saying
- “Find the opposite faces first. Making real cubes will train your eye.”
- Rather than
- “You're just not a 3D person.”