Sorting by Symmetry Maths Game

Along with your students, explore the concept of lines of symmetry using this set of 24 math task cards! Students will enjoy placing the cards into their correct category based upon whether the shape they’ve drawn from the card stack has 1, 2, 3, 4, no- or infinite- lines of symmetry!

Included in this download is:

• 1 directions page, 
• 24 task cards,
• 7 category labels, 
• 2 recording sheet templates, and
• an answer key

To play, students pick up a recording sheet and place each category card in a line (horizontally or vertically).Next, they shuffle the cards and place them face down. 

Taking turns with a partner picking up one card at a time they place the card under the correct label, and record on their sheet how many lines of symmetry the shape has. 

If cards are laminated, take a dry erase marker and draw in the lines of symmetry on the shape. Then simply wipe down the card and place it next to the category card the shape belongs in.

Alternate Uses for this Symmetry Sorting Game 

A team of dedicated, experienced educators created this resource to support your maths lessons.

In addition to individual student work time, use this symmetry game to enhance learning through guided maths groups, whole class lessons, or even homework assignments. Alternatively, try one of these great uses:

🛴 Scoot Activity 

Place the cards around the room in numerical order and give each student a recording sheet. Assign students or pairs to a starting point card. Give students time to review the card and record their answers in the corresponding space on their paper. Students will rotate to the next card when you say, “SCOOT!” Continue in this manner until students return to their starting point. 

👋 Exit Ticket

Use these cards as a formative assessment after your lesson. Pick a random assortment of cards and project them on the board for the whole class to see. Students can record their answers on a sheet of paper, sticky note or notebook. 

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or Google Slides version of this resource. A recording sheet and answer key are also included with this download. 

Print on cardboard for added durability and longevity. Place all pieces in a folder or large envelope for easy access. 

To keep the task cards out of pockets or under desks, punch a hole in the corner of each to place them on a binder ring. 

Sustainability Tip: Print a few recording sheets on cardboard and slip them into write-and-wipe sleeves. Students can record their answers with a whiteboard marker, then erase and reuse them. 

This symmetry teaching resource was created by Lisamarie Del Valle, a teacher and Teach Starter collaborator.

Looking for more fantastic symmetry teaching ideas?

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