EllipsoidIndividual Geometric Solid
The first photo is the maker's own. The other shots are illustrative.
Inv. no. NIE-018815
- Maker
- Nienhuis Montessori, since 1929
- Approval
- AMI
- Product size
- 10 × 10 cm
- Ellipsoid
- High-quality plastic with glossy finish
- Base
- Clear acrylic
- EAN
- 8719924010058
Final price incl. VAT. Delivery €5.90, €118.10 to go for free delivery.
Advice, warranty and returns are handled by us.
Why it costs €30.90
Behind the price of the original are things you can check yourself.
AMI approval
The material is approved by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI). Nienhuis has made Montessori materials since 1929.
A verifiable original
The EAN 8719924010058 is on the box. It is the maker's number, not ours.

Ellipsoid in a child's hands
Engineered for durability and precision, this Ellipsoid introduces elementary students to advanced geometric solids through independent work. The smooth blue form demonstrates the unique properties of this three-dimensional shape, where all cross-sections are ellipses or circles. Mounted on a clear acrylic base for stable display and examination, this essential geometry material supports the Montessori curriculum's progression from material to mental mathematical understanding.
Geometric Understanding
Develops comprehension of three-dimensional forms and their properties through tactile exploration and visual analysis.
Mathematical Abstraction
Bridges concrete manipulation to abstract geometric concepts, preparing for advanced mathematical thinking.
Spatial Reasoning
Enhances ability to visualize and understand relationships between 2D cross-sections and 3D forms.
Scientific Observation
Cultivates precise observation skills essential for geometry, physics, and natural sciences.
How to present it
Place the Ellipsoid on its acrylic base at the child's eye level on a neutral-colored mat. Have tracing paper, pencils, and a flashlight available for shadow work.
- 1Invite the child to explore the Ellipsoid with both hands, noting its smooth continuous surface
- 2Compare the Ellipsoid directly with a sphere, identifying the stretched appearance
- 3Demonstrate creating shadow projections using the flashlight from different angles
- 4Trace the shadow shapes, noticing when circles versus ellipses appear
- 5Introduce vocabulary: major axis, minor axis, and rotational solid
3 tips for parents
- Find ellipsoid shapes in everyday life: eggs, footballs, or watermelons for comparison
- Support vocabulary development by using geometric terms during casual observation
- Create simple sketches together showing different views of ellipsoid objects
If you are not sure it suits your child, we answer in person.
Norbert Kovalčín, founder of Faborino · write to him
There is no review here yet. We will ask you for one after you buy. Write the first review
What's in the Box
- Blue Ellipsoid: Precision-formed geometric solid
- Clear Display Base: Cylindrical acrylic stand
Size and material
| Product size | 10 × 10 cm |
| Packaging | 13 × 8 × 7 cm |
| Ellipsoid | High-quality plastic with glossy finish |
| Base | Clear acrylic |
| Recommended Age | 6-12 years |
Care
Wipe with damp cloth, dry immediately
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ellipsoid and how does it differ from a sphere?
An ellipsoid is a three-dimensional geometric solid where all cross-sections are ellipses or circles. Unlike a sphere which has equal dimensions in all directions, an ellipsoid is elongated or compressed along one or more axes, similar to how an ellipse is a stretched circle.
How do children use this ellipsoid in Montessori geometry lessons?
Children explore the ellipsoid through hands-on manipulation, tracing its curved surfaces, examining cross-sections, and comparing it with other geometric solids. They learn to identify its properties, understand its relationship to 2D shapes, and develop spatial reasoning through concrete exploration before moving to abstract concepts.
What age group is this ellipsoid appropriate for?
This ellipsoid is designed for elementary students ages 6-12, aligning with the Montessori lower and upper elementary curriculum. It's introduced after children have mastered basic geometric shapes and are ready to explore more complex three-dimensional forms.
Why is the ellipsoid blue and mounted on a clear base?
The blue color helps distinguish this solid from others in the geometric solids collection, aiding visual discrimination and memory. The clear acrylic base provides stability during examination while maintaining visibility of the complete form, allowing children to observe the shape from all angles.
What mathematical concepts does the ellipsoid teach?
The ellipsoid introduces concepts of three-dimensional geometry, cross-sections, axes of rotation, volume, surface area, and the relationship between 2D and 3D shapes. It also supports understanding of curved surfaces, symmetry, and prepares children for advanced mathematics including calculus and analytical geometry.
Product safety
Manufacturer: Nienhuis Montessori, Anders Celsiusstraat 15, 7442 PB Nijverdal, Netherlands
Ellipsoid