Lines of symmetry
I can identify shapes and images that have reflective symmetry and explain where the line of symmetry lies.
Lines of symmetry
I can identify shapes and images that have reflective symmetry and explain where the line of symmetry lies.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- A line of symmetry is used to show that one half of a shape is a reflection of the other half.
- When an image is folded along a line of symmetry, the two halves will match.
Common misconception
Children may think that any line drawn down the middle of a shape is a line of symmetry.
It is important for children to see that a line of symmetry can be folded to give two halves that match - one half is a reflection of the other half. Explore folding cut-outs of symmetrical and asymmetrical shapes to find lines of symmetry.
Keywords
Line of symmetry - If you were to fold a shape on its line of symmetry, both halves would match exactly.
Reflection - An image or shape as it would be seen in a mirror.
Symmetrical - When a shape has a line of symmetry, it can be described as symmetrical.
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
3 sides and 3 vertices
4 sides and 4 vertices
5 sides and 5 vertices
6 sides and 6 vertices
8 sides and 8 vertices
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is a pentagon.
has 8 vertices.
is a quadrilateral.
has 3 sides.
Exit quiz
6 Questions
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