Are you looking for more activities with symmetry?
In this blog post not only will you learn how to teach symmetry, but I will also share with you some symmetry teaching resources that can help you save time and effort.
1) Cut and paste symmetrical figures
Some teachers feedback to me that symmetry can be a tricky concept for some students. That is most likely because students are unable to visualize and notice that the line of symmetry act as a mirror, reflecting the image.
One way to help is to expose to them the various symmetrical figures as well as demonstrate them.
You can cut the common figures in Line Symmetry Worksheets. Ask them to fold to prove that it is or isn’t a symmetrical figure.
Discuss why it is or is not a symmetrical figure.
If it is a symmetrical figure, let them share their findings on where is the symmetry line and how many symmetrical lines are there.
With a physical item on hand, students will have a more direct view of symmetrical figures.
Related Read: Using Scaffolding For Learning Math Effectively In 9 Simple Ways
2) Create crafts with symmetry
Now that you have introduced the ideas about symmetry, ask students to create their own symmetrical figures.
A) Paint it
Create a butterfly (or any simple images students want). Here are the steps:
- Fold the paper in half.
- Ask students to paint one side of it.
- Then quickly fold it to smear the paint from one side to the other side.
- Press it down to ensure the paint transfer.
- Open it up to dry
Watch this video if you are still unclear.
B) Paper crafts
There are many paper crafts available to show symmetry. For example, paper snowflakes.
There are many more designs available too. So search Youtube for more DIY help.
Here’s one that I found: Symmetry craft ideas
3) Spot symmetry in real life
Now that your students have a clearer idea of what is symmetry, it is time for them to spot them and use them in the real world. This can help them retain the new knowledge and let them see the world with fresh new eyes!
You can make it into an activity by letting students find any items in the classroom with symmetry. If students have devices that can take photos, you can ask them to take photos to share later. Otherwise, during sharing, you can ask them to point it out to the whole class.
You can of course extend it out of the classroom and make it into a homework assignment. Ask students to take a photo or draw out items they found and share and hand it in the next day.
Some symmetry in real life are:
- Spectacles
- Butterfly
- plants/flowers
- carpet/tile
- Tennis court
- Window
- Chair
Extension idea: Discuss with your students whether their faces are symmetrical? Ask them to look at their face in the mirror or look at their partner and point out the differences.
4) Identify symmetry
Introduce more Shapes With Line Symmetry with the resource. This can help you check if students have fully understood the concept. It is a great resource for teaching line of symmetry.
This math resource includes common shapes of symmetry as well as cute symmetry pictures. With 7 question types and cute pictures, your students will be engaged as they practice line symmetry in math.
It comes in 3 formats, so you can use it in the classroom or via remote learning.
If you use it in Boom Learning, the self-checking features can help you save plenty of time and will be perfect for independent work.
5) Color to complete a symmetry figure
Students will enjoy coloring/shading to complete the Symmetry Of Patterns!
Similarly, there are 3 formats for this math resource. You can simply drag and drop the color box in Boom Cards.
With 31 task cards and 3 different types of questions, there are enough practices for students to complete a symmetric figure with respect to a given line of symmetry on grid.
Conclusion
Symmetry can be an interesting and easy topic to teach as it incorporates an art element to it. I hope you are inspired by the 5 activities for teaching symmetry.
If your students have trouble with this topic consider practicing with the 3 resources.
Grab all 3 resources at 20% off with The Lines of Symmetry bundle!
With so much practice, students will master the symmetry of maths in no time!
Still not sure? Try out the freebie that allows you to try out 7 print and digital task cards from the 2 decks: Symmetry Of Patterns, Shapes With Line Symmetry. Use this 4th grade math games online free resource now!
Here’s what other teachers said:
“The students I encounter in my STEM room needed extra practice with their symmetry lessons from math class. This activity was perfect to help them expand on the lessons learned with their homeroom teacher.”
Jacqueline R.
“This can be a tricky concept for some students. This is a fun, colourful and engaging resource that the kids are motivated to work with.”
Colleen H.
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