Develop your students’ understanding of symmetry with our Symmetrical Patterns: Line & Rotational Symmetry Activity! This resource provides students with structured and creative opportunities to practise identifying, copying and creating symmetrical patterns using both line and rotational symmetry concepts.

Students will explore three versions of the activity to help consolidate their knowledge at different levels. First, they can practise copying a completed symmetrical pattern using line symmetry. Then, they apply critical thinking to complete puzzles that follow symmetry rules. Finally, students get to create their own patterns using coloured pencils, applying their understanding of symmetrical relationships through independent design.

This activity is perfect for individual or small group work and can also be used in maths rotations or fast finisher stations. With a full-colour version included, the worksheets can be used in write and wipe sleeves for repeated use. The consistent use of common classroom whiteboard marker colours also supports ease of setup and visual clarity for all learners. Whether introducing symmetry or reinforcing existing understanding, this resource provides hands-on, student-friendly learning opportunities.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Recognise and describe line and rotational symmetry in patterns
• ✅ Copy and complete symmetrical patterns using mathematical reasoning
• ✅ Use colour, space and structure to represent symmetry visually
• ✅ Develop problem-solving skills through visual pattern analysis
• ✅ Create original designs that demonstrate understanding of symmetrical rules

What’s Included:

• Three differentiated worksheet types:
  • - Copy a completed symmetrical pattern
  • - Complete a symmetry puzzle using line or rotational rules
  • - Create your own symmetrical pattern using colour and design
• Black and white and full-colour worksheet versions
• Printable formats suitable for write and wipe sleeves

Materials Needed:

• Printed worksheets (black and white or colour)
• Coloured pencils or whiteboard markers
• Optional: write and wipe sleeves for reusability
• Rulers for pattern precision (optional)

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Use in a symmetry-focused maths rotation or workstation
• 💡 Pair with a mini-lesson on symmetry vocabulary and pattern analysis
• 💡 Use colour-based patterns to support visual learners
• 💡 Encourage peer discussion by having students compare their pattern strategies
• 💡 Display student-created patterns to form a class “Symmetry Gallery”

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Start with the copy task before moving to puzzle or creative options
• 💛 Use A3 enlargement for younger students or those with developing fine motor skills
• 💛 Pre-cut and organise activity options into folders for ease of rotation setup
• 💛 Laminate full-colour sets and store with whiteboard markers for quick and easy reuse

Symmetrical Patterns: Line & Rotational Symmetry Activity is a fun, differentiated and visually rich way to reinforce symmetry understanding. Whether used as independent practice or a small group task, this resource will help your students build confidence and fluency with symmetrical concepts.

Continue students’ exploration of symmetry with our Line & Rotational Symmetry Sort.