What is the Magnetic Polydron Mathematics Set?

The Magnetic Polydron Mathematics Set (code 50-7000) is a 118-piece magnetic geometry kit from Polydron for children aged 5 and over. It contains 11 shape types: equilateral, right-angle and isosceles triangles, squares, rectangles, pentagons, hexagons, and sphere, quadrant, cone and cylinder pieces. All pieces are magnetic and made from 70% recycled plastic.

Which 3D shapes can pupils build with the Mathematics Set?

The set lets children build the tetrahedron, cube, octahedron, icosahedron and dodecahedron, plus a range of prisms, anti-prisms and pyramids. The 8 sphere pieces, 12 quadrant pieces, 4 cone pieces and 4 cylinder pieces extend work to curved 3D shapes. Open frame pieces allow children to see inside each model. Each square measures 6 x 6 cm.

For schools

• Covers a wide range of 2D and 3D shapes for KS1 and KS2 maths in one set.
• Supports KS3 study of polyhedra, prisms, anti-prisms and pyramids.
• Curved pieces help pupils compare spheres, cones and cylinders with polyhedra.
• 118 pieces support small group investigation and whole-class demonstration.
• A concrete resource for Quality First Teaching, maths intervention and SEND provision.

For parents and home use

• One set covers most of the 3D shapes children meet in primary maths.
• Magnetic pieces make building complex shapes quicker and less frustrating.
• Building and counting faces supports homework and home learning.
• Connecting pieces gives regular fine motor practice for children aged 5 and over.

Supporting learners with SEND and learning differences

Hands-on magnetic construction can help learners with SEND and learning differences understand 3D shapes that are difficult to picture from a flat drawing. Children can build a prism, look inside it through the open frames and count its faces and edges. The magnets connect easily and give instant feedback. Building, taking apart and rebuilding a shape lets learners practise at their own pace.

The Magnetic Polydron Mathematics Set is available to order from The Dyslexia Shop, a UK specialist in resources for SEND and learning differences, for classrooms and homes.