This is a Level 3 Geometry activity from the Figure It Out Series.
A PDF of the student activity is included.
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- Describe the results of reflection.
- A set of pattern blocks
- FIO, Level 3, Geometry, Reflecting on Counters, page 22
In this activity, students are developing the concept of symmetrical reflection using mirrors. If you place a mirror across half a shape, the full shape is reflected in the mirror.
This activity allows students to experiment with this concept in a fun problem-solving way.
Answers to Activity
These answers assume that you have the reflective side of the mirror facing you. The mirror must be one without a frame.
- a. Position the mirror halfway over 1 counter as shown below:
b. To see 3 counters, position the mirror as shown below:
c. To see 12 counters, position the mirror as shown below: - All numbers up to 18 are possible if your grid allows you enough room to position the mirror across rows as shown above. Some of the more difficult numbers include:
- 14, for example,