Loading…
Loading…
GCSE Mathematics · key term
The property of a shape that matches its original position after a turn of less than about a fixed centre.
Used by AQA, Edexcel and OCR
Specification G1 · Paper 1, Paper 2, Paper 3
Revise: Properties of Polygons and SymmetryFinally, test reflection and rotation separately. This avoids assuming that a shape with rotational symmetry must also possess a mirror line, or that equal sides alone make a polygon regular.
Specification G1 · Paper 1, Paper 2, Paper 3
A shape's property of matching itself after a turn of less than about a centre.
Give line symmetry and rotational symmetry separately; a shape can have one without the other.
When finding rotational order, count the matching position after a full turn as well as any matches during the turn. A shape with no non-trivial rotational symmetry has order 1, not 0.
Create a free account to read GCSE Mathematics revision notes for your exam board and track your progress.
A polygon has reflection symmetry if a mirror line divides it so that one part reflects exactly onto the other. It has rotational symmetry if turning it about a centre through less than a full turn makes it match its original position. A square has both kinds.
Specification 8.04c · Paper 1 (Foundation), Paper 2 (Foundation), Paper 3 (Foundation), Paper 4 (Higher), Paper 5 (Higher), Paper 6 (Higher)
Symmetry in which a shape can be turned through an angle smaller than 360° about a fixed point and still look unchanged.
Revise: SymmetryFor polygons, you need to recognise two kinds: reflection symmetry and rotational symmetry. The whole outline must match, including every vertex, side and marked feature.