What is Symmetry? Like many other definitions that are present in math, here is another one! Do you know what symmetry means? That's quite alright, we will tell you! Symmetry is present in many areas of math. It is originated from a Greek word that means "to measure together." Symmetry is most commonly applied when we are studying geometry. Now, let's take a look at what it is! In simple words, the property of an object to be similar when it is divide into two is known as symmetry. When one shape becomes exactly like the other, when changed in some way, slid, turned or flipped, the property is known as symmetry. Objects can only be symmetrical if the object when they have the same shape and size. For example, if you were to divide your face in half, the two halves would be perfectly symmetrical. However, not all objects have symmetry. When an object is not symmetrical, it is known as asymmetric.
A line of symmetry means that both sides of the line contain the same exact image. This is often confirmed by a method called the folding test. This is pretty self explanatory, fold the image down the center; if both sides are equals the figure is symmetrical. If the folds do not match up entirely, the figure is asymmetric. For example a triangle can either have three (equilateral), one (isosceles), or no (scalene) lines of symmetry. These worksheets explains how to recognize and apply symmetry. These worksheets contain simple activities for students to teach them about lines of symmetry. Activities include determining if a shape is symmetrical, and identifying how many lines of symmetry a shape has.
