How to explain attributes of polygons in shape properties to your student: Example question
31 October 2026
Understanding the attributes of polygons is a key skill for 11+ shape properties. Children need to recognise features like sides and angles to describe and compare different polygons confidently. Use the example below to help your child see how to spot these attributes in a clear, step-by-step way.
Example question
Look at this shape: a pentagon.
How many sides and how many angles does a pentagon have?
Step 1: Count the sides. A pentagon has 5 sides.
Step 2: Count the angles (corners). A pentagon has 5 angles.
Step 3: Check if all sides are the same length. In a regular pentagon, all sides are equal.
Step 4: Check if all angles are the same size. In a regular pentagon, all angles are equal.
The answer: A pentagon has 5 sides and 5 angles. In a regular pentagon, all sides and angles are equal.
Key insight: The number of sides and angles are always the same in any polygon.
After working through this example, your child will be able to identify how many sides and angles a polygon has, and spot when all sides and angles are equal. This builds a strong foundation for recognising and describing any polygon. Similar questions are ready for your child to practise next.
