Lines of symmetry 2D shapes investigation

What’s included?
x5 sheets, portrait orientation, pdf format.

What’s it for?
This resource has been designed to encourage learners to investigate the various lines of symmetry within x8 2D shapes.

This investigation can be done by cutting/folding (ideally first) then recording these finding by drawing the lines of symmetry (using a ruler) onto the shapes on the sheet. Black and white AND colour versions of both sheets (cut/fold, drawing lines versions) included.

Who’s it for?
This resource has been designed for pupils in years one and two as well as older students who need to revisit this or students needing additional learning support.

This resource may also be suitable for children in EYFS although with younger ages it would probably be a good idea to upscale the sheets to a larger size (on a photocopier/scanner) first.

How to use it?
The learner can explore lines of symmetry in two ways, either using a pencil and ruler or cutting out the shapes and folding them to investigate the lines of symmetry.

Suggestion
I would encourage learners to investigate the lines of symmetry within these 2D shapes by first cutting out the shapes (using the colour/black and white version designed for this - see pages 3 and 4). Once pupils have investigated these by folding they could then use pages 1/2 (colour/black and white) to record their findings with a pencil and ruler.

Using safety mirrors along side cutting and folding AND when recording the ‘answers’ (using a pencil and ruler) will really help pupils to become clear and accurate in their mind as to whether they have found the line of symmetry.

Important…
Pupils should be encouraged to find the middle/centre of each shape first and ensure that they fold/draw a line ‘through’ this centre point in order to be accurate in their findings.

Answers are included on a separate page in the same format which learners could use for quick, easy reference.

Resource Details

• lines of symmetry (or recording ‘answers after investigation) using a pencil and ruler in colour (page 3) and black and white (page 4). Pupils will need a pencil and a ruler each.

*Investigating lines of symmetry by folding. x8 2D shapes will need cutting out (these could be pre-cut for pupils who find cutting out challenging). Pale grey, dotted ‘cutting out guidelines’ are included. Pupils will need a pencil (to ensure their write their name on their cut-out shapes!) and a pair of scissors each.

• 2D shapes included are right angled triangle, equilateral triangle, heart, circle, square, rectangle, pentagon and hexagon.

Important message…
ANY issues with any of this resource please don’t hesitate to let me know - I am happy to make changes.

Feedback of this resource would be brilliant. Thank you!

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