Properties of Shape - Symmetry Activity - Presentation

In today's lesson, students are exploring the fascinating concept of symmetry. The session begins by challenging a common misconception that shapes can only have one line of symmetry. Through a variety of engaging activities, pupils are encouraged to examine images and their reflections to identify symmetrical properties. One activity involves observing a character named Zach and his mirrored image, noting changes and consistencies such as the position of his arms and the direction of his hair. This visual approach helps children understand that reflections maintain the proximity of points to the mirror and that features appear reversed.

Further activities delve into identifying symmetrical shapes and understanding lines of symmetry. Students look at several shapes, including a square, rectangle, pentagon, and circles, to determine the number of lines of symmetry each possesses. For instance, they discover that a square has four lines of symmetry, while a circle has an infinite number, as any line through the centre creates symmetry. Additionally, they are tasked with distinguishing between shapes with no lines of symmetry, one line, or multiple lines. The lesson also includes reasoning activities where students apply their knowledge by shading rectangles on a grid to create symmetrical shapes, using horizontal, vertical, and diagonal lines of symmetry as guides. This hands-on approach solidifies their understanding of symmetry and how it can be applied to various shapes and patterns.