Symmetry Search

The students will locate manmade objects or things in nature that are symmetrical.

Grade Level: 3 - 5th

Subject: Math

Length of Time: 1-2 Class Periods

Common Core Alignment

CCSS.Math.Content.4.G.A.3 - Recognize a line of symmetry for a two-dimensional figure
as a line across the figure such that the figure can be folded along the line into matching
parts. Identify line-symmetric figures and draw lines of symmetry.

Objectives & Outcomes

The students will be able to define symmetry and identify and list examples of symmetrical
objects, both manmade and in nature.

Materials Needed
drawing paper, pencils/colored pencils or markers, stapler to use

Prepare ahead of time: Enough sheets of drawing paper of the same size, ¼ or ½ of a
regular sheet of paper would be sufficient, supplies for students. Also, seek locations where
students may search for the objects indoors and outdoors.

Procedure
Opening to Lesson
Display a circle, square, and a rectangle with a line through the center.
Ask students: What do the three shapes have in common?
Allow for responses and discussion. Lead the discussion to the two equal halves of
each shape. They are symmetrical.
Introduce the term symmetry to the class.

Body of Lesson
Modeling
Explain to students that many manmade and natural objects are symmetrical.
Use a couple of symmetrical objects as an example for students.
Tell students they will be searching for other symmetrical objects throughout the
room/school and outdoors.

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Guided Practice
Place students in pairs.
Distribute drawing paper with colored pencils, etc. The students will also need
something to write on when moving outside the room.
Tell students they are to find as many symmetrical objects as possible, make a sketch
of each item, and draw the line of symmetry on each.
Allow students time inside the classroom, through the school or other indoor location,
and outdoors.
Once completed, the students will organize their drawings in a booklet, stapling the
pages together, and creating a cover page with a title.
Finally, allow each pair of students to show some of their drawings to the class and to
tell why they are symmetrical. If an object is not symmetrical, allow other students to
explain why it is not.
Display completed booklets in an area for other students and/or visitors to review.

Independent Practice
Give students practice in identifying symmetrical shapes using teacher-created,
commercial worksheets, or Internet resources. Students make drawings of objects at
home that are symmetrical, share with the class the next day.

Closing
Select volunteers to stand in front of the room. Ask if the human body is symmetrical.
Allow for responses and discussion as to why of why not.

Assessment & Evaluation

Create a quiz or test with images of objects, and students will identify which are
symmetrical. Students write an explanation for others, a how-to on determining if an object
is symmetrical.

Modification & Differentiation

When drawing objects, tell students to describe in a word what the object is: circular,
triangular, square, rectangular, etc. Students work alone for the symmetry search.
Students vote on the best booklet, drawings, title page, etc.

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