Transformation in Geometry

I recently went back through a transformations activity I created years ago. The opening presentation needed an update.

So, I created Transformations with Millie, a short animated presentation that introduces dilation, reflection, translation, and rotation. It’s a free download in my TpT store and includes both PowerPoint and Google Slides versions. Students can use the presentation to jot down the four transformations and a quick description of what happens in each one.

When I taught this lesson, we moved from those opener into the hands-on part. We used patty paper and Wikki Stix, and every student was engaged, asking questions and—YES—learning!

I also took pictures of myself working through the transformations. Instead of stopping to demonstrate every step in front of the class, I could show students the pictures as they worked. Pictures really are worth a thousand words! Those demonstration photos are included in the activity, and I think you’ll find them very useful.

What are Wikki Stix you ask? I think they are just thread or string that has been dipped into wax which means they will stick to things. I use them as my lines of symmetry as well as a tool for rotations as seen below:

If you haven’t done transformations this year, I hope you will check out my Transformations Activity. Included is a note page, pages for each type of transformation, a quiz, keys and pictures. You will have a great time working through this with your students. Let me know what you think! Hope to hear from you soon.