Tangrams

"The tangram is the opposite of a jigsaw puzzle. Instead of fitting the pieces together in only one way, the seven tangram pieces can be arranged to make a great number of different figures."
- Bohning, G. (1997)

What is a tangram?

A tangram is a traditional Chinese puzzle that consists of seven pieces called tans. The seven pieces include one square, one parallelogram, and five triangles. Arranged correctly, the puzzle pieces can be fitted together to create a larger shape. They can form a square, a triangle, or a rectangle. They can also form complex shapes such as helicopter, house, or rocket ship.​
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Tangrams are great for enhancing spatial reasoning, learning geometry, and improving fine motor skills. They are fun and meaningful puzzles that can be incorporated into math lessons and activities. Aside from math teaching, tangrams can also be used to enhance creativity and promote divergent thinking. For example, two children will create different designs for a dog tangram puzzle. This is great because there are really multiple ways of creating a dog puzzle and there is not just one correct way of designing it.  

Using Tangrams

Observe the target shape. Recreate the shape using all the seven pieces. The rules for solving tangram puzzles are:
(1) All seven pieces must be used.
(2) The puzzle pieces must touch, but not overlap.
(3) The puzzle pieces may be rotated and/or flipped to form the target shape.
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TangramS: FUN WITH PUZZLEs

Check out this packet which contains 35 tangram puzzles that you can use in your spatial learning centers, early finishers station, and team games. 

The two sets can be used at the same time to provide differentiated options for different students.

Tangram Puzzles Set 1 
  • This set contains puzzles that show the individual outlines of the shapes. You can use them for beginners level.
Tangram Puzzles Set 2 
  • This set contains puzzles without the individual outlines of the shapes. You can give these puzzles to students who are more advanced or who want more challenge.
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Thank you so much for reading! 

Lots of love,
Ruby Jane ❤️​ ​​