BEAUTIFUL

Symmetry

S.T.E.A.M. EXPLORERS

What is symmetry?

What is symmetry?

Symmetry is when an object looks exactly the same on one side as the other. Like a mirror image!

Types of symmetry

One side is identical to the other side, so it is like a mirror reflection.

Reflection

Rotation

If you rotate the image, the shape of it stays the same even when it’s turned.

Types of symmetry

An image is mirrored across a line of axis

glide reflection

translation

When an image is shifted or slid in a certain direction, but the shape is remained unchanged.

symmetry in nature

Flowers

Snowflakes

Animals

symmetry in cities

Buildings

Rides

Flags

When you put symmetrical shapes together...

It makes a pattern!

patterns all have rules

Rules are also used in math to create a pattern with numbers

1 2 3 4 5 6

2 4 6 8 10 12

1 3 5 7 9 11

If you know how to count, you can make a pattern!

1 pink

2 purple

1 pink

2 purple

1 yellow

3 green

1 yellow

pattern example: tesselation

A tesselation is a pattern made by repeating a shape over and over again, with no overlaps or gaps

activity 1

Use crayons or stamps on the provided paper to create your own patterns! Use a ruler as needed to keep things symmetrical.

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If you want to make it your own, that’s okay too!

activity 2

Use the provided grid paper to create a cat tesselation pattern! Or, for an extra challenge, try to make it into another animal.

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Add ears, a face, and any other design features you want to bring it to life.

bonus activity

Make a line in the center of your LEGO pieces - see if you can make each side symmetrical and make a mirror image!