Five Minute Math: Exploring Symmetry through Art (an easy family math activity)

In math, symmetry means that one part of a shape or object looks exactly the same as another part when you flip, slide, or turn it. Imagine folding a piece of paper in half: if both halves match perfectly, the shape has symmetry.

You can easily explore symmetry with your child- all you need is paper and paint.

Here’s how:

• Fold a piece of paper in half. Using paint, create an image on one half of the paper only.

• While the paint is still wet, carefully fold the paper in half. Carefully creasing/ pressing down on the paper will help the image transfer.

• Open the paper and observe- symmetry!

The type of symmetry shown above is bilateral symmetry. You and your child can experiment with different folds to create different kinds of symmetry… maybe you can make something with more than three folds?

To further extend this activity, see if you can find examples of symmetry in nature. Leaves, shells, and insects are all great places to start.