Transformations for 10

'Transformations for 10' printed from https://nrich.maths.org/

Show menu

Why do this problem?

This problem gives a good opportunity to think about the action of matrices on vectors in geometrical as well as algebraic terms, allowing students to develop ideas about what multiplication of a vector by a matrix actually means.

Possible approach

One approach that works well is to divide the class into groups and give each group some of the questions to work on. A possible grouping is questions 1-3, 4-7, and 8-10, with 8-10 being the most challenging.

Ask each group to first read through each question and decide whether they have any intuitive feel for what the right answer might be. Then they should use algebra and/or geometrical arguments to justify their answers. In cases where the answer depends on various factors, students should clearly explain what these factors are. Explain that at the end of the session they will have to justify their answers to the rest of the class, so they should prepare a presentation to explain their findings.

Some students may need reminding about the form of the vector equations of a line and a plane.

At the end, allow plenty of time for students to present their answers to the questions they were given, and encourage the rest of the class to be critical, asking questions and challenging anything that doesn't make sense to them.

Key questions

Can you give an algebraic example to justify your answer to the question?

How does a geometrical interpretation of the situation help?

Possible extension

Questions 8-10 are a little more challenging than the first few questions in the problem.

Possible support

Square Pair gives a good starting point for considering how matrices transform vectors in two dimensions.

Matrix Meaning extends students' understanding about the effects of matrices which reflect or rotate in two or three dimensions.

There are more matrix problems in this feature.