SYMMETRY AND TRANSFORMATIONS
IN THE WORLD

Grade: High School
Subject: Mathematics
Curricular Goal: Students will find examples of symmetry and transformations in nature and the business world

Introduction:

    In our Geometry course, we study transformations and several types of symmetry.  Many students do not realize that these geometrical concepts are present in their everyday lives.  In this WebQuest, we will find representations of symmetry and transformations in nature and business.

Task:

    Students will be paired to search for an example of each type of symmetry and transformation.  Representations must be found for Point, Line and Rotational Symmetry as well as these types of transformations:  Rotations, Reflections and Translations. Students will compile a visual guide to the different types of symmetry and transformations, then give a brief explanation of each picture describing the geometrical concept present.

Process:

    Students can look for famous structures, natural phenomenon and representations in the business world (i.e. automobiles, logos, etc.).  For additional explanations of these geometric concepts students may visit Rigid Motion.  or Transformations
    You will be paired with another student in your class.  You may visit the web sites listed below or use books and magazines to find examples of each type of symmetry and transformation. Your report will consist  of  one example of each of the following: reflection, rotation, translation, line symmetry, point symmetry and rotational symmetry.  Print a copy of each example or save it to a disk if your presentation will be shown on the computer.  With each example, give a brief explanation of what is demonstrated in your picture.  Your report should have a title page with both students' names on it.  Present your findings in a creative way (i.e.  a story book, a Power Point presentation, etc.).
    Students will have one week to complete the project.  Some lab time will be provided in class.
   Below is an example of what is expected:
    1.
            This is an example of one-line symmetry.  One vertical line can be drawn through the center of the jar.  If a line is drawn it is easy to see that the left and right sides are the same (ignoring any glares from the light).

Resources:

    Students may search the following sites for data.  Additional information may be found in magazines, newspapers and books.  Please make a photocopy of the pictures that are found in the printed media or download any pictures from the web.
                               http://comp.uark.edu/~cgstraus/expo.html
                               http://forum.swarthmore.edu/geometry/rugs/gallery/
                               http://tdq.advanced.org/2755/index.html
                               http://www. shelterpub.com/-symmetry/symmetry.html
                               http://comp.uark.edu/~cgstraus/symmetry.unit/sym.1.3.5html

Evaluation:

    Each pair of students will turn in one report.  The total number of points that may be earned for each report is 40.  Students will earn three points for each geometric representation (one point for the picture and two points for the descriptions).  Four points may be earned for creativity, neatness and title page.
Conclusion:
 
    At the end of this WebQuest, students will have found examples of transformations and symmetry in the world.  We hope that this activity has increased your understanding and awareness of geometry in the world around you.

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                                Page Sponsor:  Crystal Steker
                                Page Content Author:  Melissa O'Hara
                                Date:  11/13/2006