You may also like

problem icon

Times

Which times on a digital clock have a line of symmetry? Which look the same upside-down? You might like to try this investigation and find out!

problem icon

Transformation Tease

What are the coordinates of this shape after it has been transformed in the ways described? Compare these with the original coordinates. What do you notice about the numbers?

problem icon

Penta Play

A shape and space game for 2,3 or 4 players. Be the last person to be able to place a pentomino piece on the playing board. Play with card, or on the computer.

Transforming the Letters

Stage: 2 Challenge Level: Challenge Level:1

Why do this problem?

This problem uses the letters of the alphabet to study the effects of transformations such as rotations and reflections. It requires learners to visualise and predict outcomes. It could help learners to acquire and practise the language of both symmetry and transformations such as vertical and horizontal reflections, and turning through $180^o$.

Key questions

Will it look the same after you have rotated it through $180^o$?
How will it look after you have flipped it sideways/from top to bottom?
Why don't you try using a mirror to see if you are right?
Do these letters have a horizontal/vertical line of symmetry?

Possible extension

Learners could systematically go through the letters of the whole alphabet.

Possible support

Suggest using a mirror or cutting out some letters and trying them.

The NRICH Project aims to enrich the mathematical experiences of all learners. To support this aim, members of the NRICH team work in a wide range of capacities, including providing professional development for teachers wishing to embed rich mathematical tasks into everyday classroom practice. More information on many of our other activities can be found here.
Copyright © 1997 - 2012. University of Cambridge. All rights reserved.
NRICH is part of the family of activities in the Millennium Mathematics Project.