Math Game Monday: Symmetry Challenge

This game builds visual thinking skills.

Many parents remember struggling to learn math. We hope to provide a better experience for our children. And one of the best ways for children to enjoy learning is through hands-on play.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s play some math!

Symmetry Challenge

Math Concepts: symmetry, geometry.

Players: only two.

Equipment: graph paper or blank hundred chart, colored pencils or markers.

Set-Up

Each player will need a printed sheet of graph paper or a blank hundred chart. Draw a line that divides the page in half. Your line may be vertical, horizontal, or diagonal.

Or draw two lines that split the chart into fourths. With two lines of symmetry, the pattern will match in both directions: top reflects bottom, and left reflects right.

How to Play

With felt-tip markers or colored pencils, draw lines or fill in squares to make a pattern in one section (half or fourth) of your chart.

Trade papers with a friend. Can you complete each other’s puzzle? Whatever shapes you see on one side of a mirror line, draw their reflections on the other side.

Variation

Advanced Puzzle: Color shapes in different sections of the chart. Your shapes should not match each other symmetrically, but when all of them have been reflected across the line(s) of symmetry, they will create a finished design.