What is a Cross?

What is a cross?

A cross is a 2D shape comprised of intersecting lines or bars that are perpendicular to one another. These lines can run horizontally or vertically but can sometimes be diagonal. A cross with diagonal running lines is known as a saltire. This is the shape that can be seen on flags for countries like Scotland.

Crosses are very easy to identify due to having a lot of definable features. For one, they’re always symmetrical due to having intersecting lines. In addition to that, crosses have loads of edges and sides, always having the same number no matter the size of the cross. A cross will always have eight edges and 12 sides.

What do crosses symbolise?

The cross is not merely just a shape as it holds a lot of symbolic significance. This is especially true when it comes to Christianity. In this context, the cross holds a lot of power as it represents the sacrifice Jesus made when he was crucified on the cross and the salvation it provided his mankind.

Cross Shape Activities

Looking for activities to use with your class to help develop their understanding of crosses other 2D shapes? Look no further as we’ve got you covered with these Cross Shape Activities!

For starters, there’s the Name the 2D Shape Worksheet which will test your class’s current knowledge when it comes to 2D shapes. With 8 shapes ready to be named and their sides counted, this will make a brilliant starter to your class!

As mentioned already, crosses are defined by having loads of edges and sides. To ensure your class understand sides and corners, try using the Properties of 2D Shapes Worksheet. This resource is differentiated, meaning it’ll provide a challenge for your entire class!

When it comes to familiarising your class with the facts about shapes, there’s no handier resource than the Properties of Shape PowerPoint. This activity works as a great warm-up for the day ahead, testing your pupils with pointing out different shapes and exercising their knowledge to figure out the correct answer.

Your class’s learning of 2D shapes doesn’t have to be limited to worksheets, as shown by the 2D Shape Information Poster. This set of A4 posters features a variety of different shapes along with essential information and facts. For example, the poster for trapezium details how many straight sides and corners it has.

If you enjoy using a variety of different methods in your teaching, then you might have seen how useful video lessons and clips can be for engaging young learners. They can be great for keeping children's attention and introducing them to new topics.

That's why we've created a huge library of maths videos, which you can find on Twinkl Kids' TV YouTube channel. The video below is just one of many.So, if you decide to check them out, we'd love to hear what you think! Feel free to get in touch with any feedback about our content. It helps us to make resources and videos that are even better for those who teach and those who learn.