Cut out squares and equilateral triangles with the same side length. These are provided at the end of the book. Make different symmetrical designs by using these two shapes.
Square Properties:
- 4 lines of symmetry
- Rotational symmetry of order 4
Equilateral Triangle Properties:
- 3 lines of symmetry
- Rotational symmetry of order 3
Creating Symmetrical Designs: By combining these shapes, you can create designs with:
- Reflection symmetry (by placing identical shapes as mirror images)
- Rotational symmetry (by arranging shapes evenly around a centre point)
- Both types of symmetry
Explanation
The chapter encourages hands-on exploration of symmetry using basic shapes. Students learn that squares have 4 lines of symmetry and rotational symmetry of order 4, while equilateral triangles have 3 lines of symmetry and rotational symmetry of order 3. By combining these shapes thoughtfully, students can create designs demonstrating different symmetry properties.
Solution Steps
Cut out squares and equilateral triangles with the same side length.
Identify that a square has 4 lines of symmetry and rotational symmetry of order 4.
Identify that an equilateral triangle has 3 lines of symmetry and rotational symmetry of order 3.
Create designs with reflection symmetry by placing identical shapes as mirror images.
Create designs with rotational symmetry by arranging shapes evenly around a centre point.
Combine shapes to create designs with both types of symmetry.