Chapter 1 of the new Class 4 Maths textbook Math Mela is Shapes Around Us. It introduces flat (2D) and solid (3D) shapes found in everyday objects, and how to describe them by their sides and corners.
Flat and Solid Shapes
Q: What is the difference between a flat shape and a solid shape? Give one example of each.
A: A flat (2D) shape, like a square or triangle, lies on a single flat surface and has no thickness. A solid (3D) shape, like a ball or a box, takes up space in all directions and can be picked up and held.
Sides and Corners
Q: How many sides and corners does a triangle have? How about a rectangle?
A: A triangle has 3 sides and 3 corners. A rectangle has 4 sides and 4 corners.
Shapes in Everyday Objects
Q: Name one everyday object that is shaped like a circle, and one shaped like a cube.
A: A wheel or a coin is shaped like a circle. A dice or a sugar cube is shaped like a cube.
Comparing Shapes
Q: How can you tell two shapes apart even if they are drawn in different sizes?
A: By counting and comparing their number of sides and corners — two shapes with the same number of sides and corners (like two triangles) belong to the same shape family, no matter their size.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many corners does a circle have?
A circle has no corners — it is a curved shape with no straight sides.
What makes a shape a solid shape?
A solid shape occupies space in three dimensions (length, breadth, and height) and can be held, unlike a flat shape which lies on one surface.
Class 4 Mathematics Chapter 1 – Notes and Extra Questions
Along with these NCERT Solutions, students can also use the Class 4 Mathematics Chapter 1 Extra Questions and Class 4 Mathematics Chapter 1 Revision Notes for quick revision and extra practice.

