Count vertices, edges, and faces
key notes :
📘 Key Vocabulary
- Vertex (Vertices) – A corner where edges meet.
- Edge – A straight line where two faces meet.
- Face – A flat surface of a 3D shape.
📐 Common 3D Shapes and Their Properties
Shape | Vertices | Edges | Faces |
---|---|---|---|
Cube | 8 | 12 | 6 |
Rectangular Prism | 8 | 12 | 6 |
Pyramid (square base) | 5 | 8 | 5 |
Triangular Prism | 6 | 9 | 5 |
Cylinder | 0 | 2 | 3 |
Cone | 1 | 1 | 2 |
Sphere | 0 | 0 | 1 |
🧠 Concepts to Understand
- Vertices are points, like the corners of a box.
- Edges are lines, like the sides of a box.
- Faces are flat parts, like the top, bottom, and sides of a box.
- 3D shapes are made up of these parts.
🔍 Tips for Counting
- Use your fingers or draw dots at each vertex to count.
- Trace edges with a pencil or finger.
- Count the flat surfaces (faces) one by one.
🎯 Activities to Practice
- Build 3D shapes using toothpicks and clay.
- Use real-life objects like boxes, cans, or balls.
- Create a 3D shape chart in class.
Learn with an example
🎯 How many faces does this shape have?

___ faces
Faces are the flat parts of the shape. Here is a face.

Count the faces.
Start with the two opposite faces.

Next, go around the shape.

The shape has 6 faces.
🎯 How many faces does this shape have?

_____ faces
Faces are the flat parts of the shape. Here is a face.

Count the faces.
Start with the two opposite faces.

Next, go around the shape.

The shape has 6 faces.
🎯 How many faces does this shape have?

____ faces
Faces are the flat parts of the shape. Here is a face.

Count the faces.
Start with the two opposite faces.

Next, go around the shape.

The shape has 6 faces.
let’s practice!