The Divided Hexagonal Prism — Decomposable 3D Shape for Advanced Geometry is a Sensorial Montessori material designed for children aged 6-12, crafted by Nienhuis Montessori to AMI standards.
This Divided Hexagonal Based Prism is a specialized Montessori geometric solid that demonstrates how complex three-dimensional shapes can be decomposed into simpler components. The hexagonal prism is precisely divided along a diagonal plane, creating two asymmetrical pieces that fit together perfectly, allowing children to explore spatial relationships, volume concepts, and the properties of non-rectangular prisms.
“The greatest sign of success for a teacher is to be able to say, 'The children are now working as if I did not exist.'”— Maria MontessoriThe Absorbent Mind
“Free the child's potential, and you will transform him into the world.”
— Maria Montessori, To Educate the Human Potential
The Divided Hexagonal Based Prism embodies the Montessori principle of isolation of difficulty by presenting one complex concept—the decomposition of a non-rectangular prism—in a concrete, manipulable form. This material supports the child's mathematical mind during the second plane of development, when abstract reasoning flourishes through hands-on exploration. By physically separating and reuniting the prism, children move from concrete manipulation to abstract understanding of spatial relationships and volume. The material respects the child's need for exactness and precision while fostering independence in discovering geometric properties. It serves as a bridge between the sensorial experiences of the first plane and the geometric abstractions of adolescence, allowing children to construct their own understanding of how complex shapes relate to simpler forms through repeated, purposeful interaction.
Each order includes everything needed for proper presentation and long-term use.
Follow the Montessori method of presentation for optimal child development.
Invite the child to examine the complete hexagonal prism, tracing edges and vertices with fingers
Demonstrate how to gently separate the two pieces along the diagonal plane
Explore each piece individually, noting the different faces created by the division
Challenge the child to reunite the pieces without assistance
Trace the outline of the diagonal cut on paper
Every material is carefully selected for durability, safety, and authentic Montessori experience.
The smooth, glossy finish provides both durability and a pleasing tactile experience, helping children focus on the geometric properties while protecting the wood from wear.
Each material supports multiple areas of child development simultaneously.
Manipulating the divided prism develops three-dimensional thinking and understanding of how complex shapes can be decomposed.
Introduces concepts of volume division, cross-sections, and the properties of hexagonal prisms through hands-on exploration.
Figuring out how the two pieces fit together strengthens logical thinking and spatial problem-solving abilities.
Designed for child-sized hands
Professional tips from AMI-trained guides to maximize the educational value of this material.
“Present this material after the child has worked extensively with basic geometric solids and can identify a hexagonal prism”
'diagonal plane,' 'asymmetrical pieces,' 'hexagonal faces' to enrich vocabulary
Connect to real-world architecture by showing images of buildings with hexagonal elements
Prepare extension cards showing the mathematical formula for hexagonal prism volume for interested children
Everything you need to know about this material.
This material introduces children to advanced geometric concepts including hexagonal prism properties, diagonal planes, volume decomposition, spatial relationships, and how complex 3D shapes can be divided into simpler components. It builds understanding of non-rectangular prisms and prepares children for more complex geometry studies.
Children explore by separating and reassembling the two asymmetrical pieces, tracing the diagonal cut plane, comparing the divided sections, and discovering how the pieces fit together perfectly. They can also trace around the shapes, create drawings from different perspectives, and use it alongside other geometric solids for comparison studies.
Unlike standard geometric solids, this prism is precisely divided along a diagonal plane, creating two unique asymmetrical pieces. This division allows children to physically explore internal geometry, understand how 3D shapes can be decomposed, and visualize cross-sections that would otherwise remain abstract concepts.
Children should have experience with basic geometric solids, understand concepts of faces, edges, and vertices, and be familiar with regular prisms. Prior work with the geometric cabinet, constructive triangles, and basic 3D shapes helps children better appreciate the complexity of this divided hexagonal prism.
Crafted with Montessori-quality standards, this divided prism is made from precisely cut, smooth-finished wood designed to withstand years of classroom handling. The two pieces fit together with exact precision, maintaining their alignment even after repeated use, making it a long-lasting investment for geometry studies.
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