Abstract Thinking: 3-D Views, Shape Flips & Hidden Patterns

What is abstract thinking in Class 3 computational thinking?

Abstract thinking is the ability to imagine and solve problems with hidden, unseen, or transformed ideas without needing physical objects in front of you — such as visualising the top of a building, or imagining what a shape looks like after a flip.

How do different viewpoints of 3-D objects work?

Every 3-D object looks different depending on where you look from. For example, a cylinder looks like a circle from the top view, but looks like a rectangle from the front or side view.

What happens to a shape during flips, turns, and folds?

A flip creates a mirror reflection across a line of symmetry. A turn (rotation) spins the shape around a point (like hands of a clock). A fold checks if two halves match up along a crease line.

How do you find hidden or missing parts in shapes?

Look at the edges, corners, and symmetry of the complete shape. Compare the visible pieces against the whole outline to identify exactly what is missing.