A rectangular prism, also known as a rectangular solid, is a three-dimensional shape that has six faces, all of which are rectangles. The opposite faces of a rectangular prism are congruent and parallel to each other. It is a type of prism because it has two parallel and congruent bases connected by rectangular faces.

Properties of a Rectangular Prism

It has 6 faces, 12 edges, and 8 vertices.
The opposite faces of a rectangular prism are congruent and parallel.
The lateral faces (faces that are not the base) are all rectangles.
The volume of a rectangular prism can be found using the formula: V = l * w * h, where l is the length, w is the width, and h is the height of the prism.
The surface area of a rectangular prism can be found using the formula: A = 2lw + 2lh + 2wh, where l is the length, w is the width, and h is the height of the prism.

Examples of Rectangular Prism

Here are some real-life examples of rectangular prisms:

A rectangular box
A book
A brick
A cereal box

Study Tips

When studying rectangular prisms, it's important to remember the formulas for finding the volume and surface area. Practice identifying the different properties of a rectangular prism, such as its faces, edges, and vertices. Try to visualize real-life objects that can be represented as rectangular prisms to understand their practical applications.

◂Math Worksheets and Study Guides Sixth Grade. Volume

The resources above cover the following skills:

Geometry (NCTM)

Use visualization, spatial reasoning, and geometric modeling to solve problems.

Use geometric models to represent and explain numerical and algebraic relationships.

Measurement (NCTM)

Apply appropriate techniques, tools, and formulas to determine measurements.

Select and apply techniques and tools to accurately find length, area, volume, and angle measures to appropriate levels of precision.

Develop strategies to determine the surface area and volume of selected prisms, pyramids, and cylinders.

Connections to the Grade 6 Focal Points (NCTM)

Measurement and Geometry: Problems that involve areas and volumes, calling on students to find areas or volumes from lengths or to find lengths from volumes or areas and lengths, are especially appropriate. These problems extend the students' work in grade 5 on area and volume and provide a context for applying new work with equations.