Line Symmetry is a beginning Geometry concept that helps children with spatial relationships. An object is said to have a line of symmetry, or be symmetrical, if a straight line can be traced through the middle of the shape, and the two sides are mirror images of each other. For example, if you think about the shape of a heart, and you trace a vertical line through the heart, both sides are mirror images of each other. You should be able to fold one side directly on top of the other side, and they should match up. Other pictures that you could draw to show images with symmetry include a simple house, a square, rectangle, hexagon, a face, etc..
Paint Blob Symmetry
Dig out those washable paints and some large white painting paper, and explore symmetry together! Fold the paper in half lengthwise. Ask your child to paint an abstract picture on ONE side of the paper, working quickly so the paint doesn’t have time to dry. Try to paint as close to the folded edge as possible. When your child has finished painting, fold the paper along the crease you made originally, and the paint should transfer to the blank side of the page. Point out to your child that both sides are the same, only they are opposite images.
Butterfly Symmetry
Look up pictures of butterflies on the Internet , in books or magazines. Help your child recognize that the patterns on butterfly wings are symmetrical. If your child enjoys drawing, he may like to try drawing a butterfly of his own (that is symmetrical, of course!)
Alphabet Symmetry
Several uppercase letters of the alphabet are symmetrical. Write out all the uppercase letters, and see if your child can trace a line of symmetry (note: some letters have more than one line of symmetry). The letters that have one line of symmetry are: A, B, C, D, E, K, M, T, U, V, W, and Y. The letters that have 2 lines of symmetry are H, I, O, and X. Watch out for the letters N, S, and Z… they look as though they have lines of symmetry, but when you look closely, you will see that they do not!
Symmetry All Around Us
Go on a symmetry hunt in and around your house. See how many examples of symmetry you can find… you might be surprised how many things you will find!
As always, please feel free to leave me a comment/suggestion about the blog. I appreciate the feedback! Remember to check out our Addition and Subtraction Math Fact games kit called “Giggle Facts” at www.gigglelearn.com
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