When a shape, pattern or image has two halves that match exactly when folded, it can be described as symmetrical.

If you were to fold a shape at its line of symmetry, both halves would match exactly.

When you reflect a shape, you flip it over a mirror line or line of symmetry without turning it or changing the size.

Investigate symmetry and symmetrical patterns

Maths

In this unit pupils will pupils will complete and compose symmetrical shapes from two congruent shapes and investigate lines of symmetry in 2D shapes. In the future unit pupils will explain what area is and measure using counting as a strategy. They will make different shapes with the same area and compare the area of different shapes. 

In the prior unit pupils investigated ways to compose and decompose polygons. They investigated quadrilaterals with and without parallel and perpendicular sides. In this unit pupils will complete and compose symmetrical shapes from two congruent shapes and investigate lines of symmetry in 2D shapes.

Properties of 2D and 3D shapes and symmetry

Rectangles have __________ lines of symmetry. Tick all that apply.

Both flags have one line of symmetry. In which direction is the line of symmetry?

How many lines of symmetry does this flag have?

True or false. This pattern has two lines of symmetry.

Which of the patterns has two lines of symmetry?

True or false. This shape has been correctly reflected in a diagonal line of symmetry.

Which image shows an incorrect reflection?

Look at these shapes that have been reflected. Both shapes are __________.

This shape has been reflected in a diagonal line of symmetry. The new shape is a __________.

Starter Quiz