Geometry

Study of shapes, sizes, properties of space, and geometric relationships.

Advanced Topics

Transformations and Symmetry

Moving and Flipping Shapes

Geometry isn't just about drawing shapes—it's about changing them, too! Transformations are ways to move shapes around without changing their size or shape.

Types of Transformations

  • Translation: Sliding a shape from one place to another.
  • Rotation: Turning a shape around a point.
  • Reflection: Flipping a shape over a line (like a mirror image).
  • Dilation: Enlarging or shrinking a shape, keeping its proportions.

Symmetry

A shape is symmetrical if it can be divided into identical parts that are mirror images. There are two main types:

  • Line Symmetry: The shape matches itself when folded along a line.
  • Rotational Symmetry: The shape looks the same after a turn.

Why It Matters

Symmetry is everywhere—from butterflies’ wings to building designs!

Real-World Examples

Logos often use symmetry to look balanced. Transformations help in animation and game design.

Examples

  • Rotating a snowflake to see its symmetry.

  • Sliding puzzle pieces to solve a game.

In a Nutshell

Transformations move shapes; symmetry makes them balanced and beautiful.

Key Terms

Transformation
A change in position, size, or orientation of a shape.
Symmetry
A quality where one part of a figure matches another.