Symmetrical and Asymmetrical Shapes - Outcome A (K-3)-12

Have the children practice making different body shapes (round, wide, long, thin or twisted). Practice both static balances and balances while moving.

Explain symmetrical and asymmetrical shapes. A symmetrical shape is any shape the body makes which, if divided down the middle with an imaginary line, would show that each side is the same and forms a mirror image of the other side. An asymmetrical shape is any shape that the body makes which, if divided down the middle with an imaginary line, would show that each side of the body is different from the other side.

Organize the children into partners. Have them create a sequence to include four body shapes: two in symmetrical shapes and two in asymmetrical shapes.

The children should hold the balances for three to five seconds each. They can then show these to each other or to the whole class. Remember to encourage variations such as level, directions and pathways.

Levels, Shapes, Directions and Pathways

One partner could do all four body shapes in symmetrical shapes while the other does the same four body shapes in asymmetrical shapes.

These are clues that you have reached the outcomes ...

Students will show through movement:

• Both symmetrical and asymmetrical shapes
• Balances held for three to five seconds
• Smooth movement from one action to another.

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