Why do some children have difficulty with rotational symmetry?

Question

Why do some children have difficulty with rotational symmetry? What methods can
you use to help them understand rotational symmetry? How can you explain this to students?

Answer 1

Rotational Symmetry is part of Group Theory. For HS STEM subjects, rotational symmetry is often introduced using 2D figures or 3D objects. I believe ALL, I mean all, children can understand and eventually master rotational symmetry by practicing with figures and objects with n-fold rotational symmetry. One important point is to pin point the rotation axis. 

Games, video, observations inside and outside classrooms, schools and homes and asking student to make a list of objects/figures having rotational symmetry, all helps student to understand and master it. Also the formation of symmetric pattern from individual objects or pieces, and many other ways too, can be used to help students understand and master rotational symmetry.

Why stop there! There are other type of symmetry too, help students see them!!

Once students get their hands on experience and with minimal instruction from teacher, students will get it and own it for life. It is like riding a bike or swim, once you learn it, you know it for life.

In chemistry, one may bring forth the wonder of molecules and crystals with all sort of symmetry as a lot of highschoolers trend to enjoy seeing those pretty pictures and objects.

Answer 2

Every child is different. I can't explain why some have difficulty with it but I can maybe help with explaining it to them. Rotational symmetry is best understood when visualizing it. So make sure you show them examples in motion. Then, I would show them something that does not have rotational symmetry. Also having them look at pictures and turning their head (that way they are doing the motion - so they understand no tricks are being played) and have them make the observation of when the image looks the same as it did from their heads upright position. The most important key is knowing the difference between something that has rotational symmetry and something that doesn't. If they child cannot explain it in words but knows the difference between one and the other - he or she still comprehends the concept of rotational symmetry. 

 

This website can help: http://www.mathsisfun.com/geometry/symmetry-rotational.html