Point Symmetry: Comments from December Conference Session

Point Symmetry Workshop

© Phil Boorman

Comments from December Conference Session 07/12/2001

Like the "on hands" approach for Primary School but if children could then drag the shapes to check what they've done this would be a bonus & a motivation. Children could be asked to record some shapes by using drawing toolbar in Word.

New approach to symmetry. Hands on using different technology etc. I think it's good. I will trial it and see other features. Good start.

It's a good program but I would prefer rather the kids do all the work through the computer.

Nice idea would like pieces to be movable on screen & auto check if correct. Either:
correct yes/no try again
or
test (mechanism) for finished shape (prefered option).

Good value - I'll use this! I'd like to see solutions in a file somewhere.

I like the concept of having the materials to work with beside the computer. It would seem to me that there is a great opportunity to expand this to other areas. I will try this with some of my students.

The teacher will need to make some effort and take care in setting the context and purpose of doing these activities to engender student enthusiasm and interest or they are likely to say 'so what', fold their arms and wander off to other web sites.

I liked the materials and the blend of computer technology with tangible puzzle pieces but was confused to start about 'click' symmetry idea and wasn't aware there was triangle dot paper until I read the teachers instructions on the web site.

I started with triangular problems and found them difficult - so would recommend students start with simple easily achievable ones first so as not to discourage them - i.e. square based.

I was also looking for only one solution and noted later there were several - so students should be encouraged to find more.

Good activity cooperative learning task.

A fabulous 'resource way' to let students engaged with Topics <<Geometry, Shapes, Areas>> etc.
Related to web sites/computers; an efficient way also to let them be engaged with topic.
An effective session with a marvellous "lecturer"; a good lesson plan, well organized. WELL DONE!

good interesting topic
material good but would prefer a software package allowing rotation of shapes on screen.
back up notes with demo needed.
links to.....crystals....possibly added.
paper drawing not a winner in some classes.

Good site - especially for brighter independent kids. Needs much better intro & explanation before kids are let loose on site.
Teachers notes are great, perhaps some revision would be good.
Materials are great.
Great start to lots more activities.

Another great resource for an underdone topic.
Simple to follow/presentation.
Computers no necessary - too much of a distraction from other sites/activities.
Better to have printed out sheets.
Hands on activities fantastic.

A good way to understand point symmetry. Simple to follow and interesting presentation. Are the computers really necessary. They're a good place for teachers to get information but using a resource that could be used by other classes who need computers. So, print the work cards.

I found the task quite difficult to do. When back at school I will continue using the site to experiment with the task. As we have access to computers on a semi-regular basis, with appropriate software etc. this task would be used after explaining symmetry but only after I see if my teachers were interested in the topic. Task like this might encourage me to access the MAV site on a regular basis. I would probably use this at Year 7.

It was good there were no clear rules but junior classes need some direction or prompting, for example need an explanation at 4-click & point symmetry·
Stacking of shapes in three dimensions should be accepted, shows creativity.·
May need to start with square-based shapes with weaker students to avoid frustration.