Transformations

Introduction

Transformations are explicitly mentioned for the first time in the new Irish primary maths curriculum. Symmetry was covered under the 1999 curriculum as was rotation in relation to angles but the "new" curriculum (PMC) places a far greater emphasis on transformations and their place in shape & space.

Everyday life

Being able to translate, flip, rotate and manipulate shapes are hugely important for children's everyday spatial awareness. Reading maps, building, engineering, coding, computer games, animation & design and even sport all rely hugely on transformation.

Advanced Maths

Understanding transformations are also important in laying the foundations for geometry, algebra and fractions. The greater emphasis in the PMC is to be welcomed. As with all strands, the curriculum emphasises children's own experiences and a playful approach.

Physical movement

Physical movement is an ideal way to begin teaching transformations. Starting with simple instructions on the playground, e.g. translate 3 steps to the left; work with a partner to mirror their actions or use a mirror line or rotate a 1/4 turn are all useful ways of embodying a very real kinaesthetic learning.

Moving to shapes

Having shapes for children to manipulate, rotate and turn is the next and a hugely important step for children. Being able to use shapes to explore different concepts such as rotating, reflecting and translating is key to allowing children to start moving towards more abstract concepts.

Talk & Discussion

As with all maths concepts, talk and discussion forms a very important part of learning about transformations for children. It does not take much to prompt children about the ways they can encounter transformations in their everyday lives, for example:

• Board games such as chess.

• Computer games such as minecraft or tetris.

• Animation or design.

• The rotation of the hands of a clock.

• Mirrors.