If students have access to computers, try this online activity. There are three ability levels: beginning, intermediate and expert. One-half of a pattern is shown on a grid. Students click and drag square shapes to the pattern grid, completing the patterns so they have symmetry. They can check the solution and advance to another pattern.
Have students work with partners and distribute a set of card stock polygons to each pair. The patterns contain shapes such as a triangle, square and hexagon. Ask students to draw all lines of symmetry. Have volunteers display their finished products on an overhead projection.
Students need a square of paper and scissors for this activity. Have them fold the square on the diagonal line and continue making symmetrical folds. Then, have students cut patterns into the folded shape and it opens up to look like a snowflake. Download and give each student a copy of Southeastern Louisiana University’s online “Making Snowflakes” pattern to follow.
Using block-style letters, ask students to work with partners and find the lines of symmetry in various letters. Start with simple letters such as I and T. If students are more advanced, you can ask them to determine whether the letter has rotational symmetry--it can be turned a certain number of degrees and still have the same shape.
Ask students to draw a polygon and a line on tracing paper, placing a sheet of graph paper underneath for guidance. Draw a point of reference on the line. Use a second sheet of paper to trace the same figure. Flip the second sheet over and align the lines of reflection. Create various polygons, following the same procedure.
Have students work in partners and use rulers and graph paper to create a shape on the top of the page. Partners should then exchange papers and draw the reflection of the figure on the bottom half of the paper.
This works well with young students. Place a mirror where all children can see it. Choose a student to come up to the mirror and raise his right hand. Ask him which hand the mirror image seems to be raising. Choose different volunteers, and change the direction: “Raise your left hand” or “Swing your right leg.”