Symmetry Lapbook

A lapbook does not have to be a long project. A lapbook can be assembled in a day or two, as a mini project. In this example a friend of mine wanted to introduce symmetry to her daughter, mainly through the use of drawings. Early study of symmetry usually involves lots of artwork, for example mirror painting (where a picture is painted on one side of the paper, then the paper is folded to print on the other half), or paper cut outs (where shapes are cut from a  folded paper , then the paper is opened out again). These activities are great fun to do, but at the end you have a collection of papers which can easily get lost or jumbled up. A lapbook is a good way to pull all these examples together, and store them so that they can retain their meaning. 

The word “symmetry” is not symmetrical, as illustrated above!

This lapbook comprises several sections.

Examples of symmetrical shapes with the line of symmetry marked.

Examples of non-symmetrical shapes, with lines drawn as suggested “mirror lines” where the child was asked to place a mirror to check for symmetry.

Mini fold with symmetry information.

Symmetrical pattern made from cut outs.

Cut out shapes, some folded, with symmetry lines marked where approriate.

The colouring on the top left shape is clearly not symmetrical (someone got carried away with the felt tips) – but you get the idea!

The writing says “If you put a mirror in the middle of the shapes you will see if the shapes look the same on both sides or if  they look different.”