Transformations for Kids: Slide, Flip and Turn on a Grid (Grade 8 Math)

Hi, I'm Luna from DoodleBeez. Today we are learning about transformations. These are ways to move a shape on a grid. We can slide it, flip it, or turn it, and it keeps the same size and shape.

A slide is called a translation. The point two comma three slides right four and up one. Add four to x and add one to y. It lands at six comma four.

A flip is called a reflection. Flip the point three comma two over the x axis. It stays the same distance from the axis, but now it is below. The y number changes sign, so it lands at three comma negative two.

Now flip the same point over the y axis instead. This time the point jumps to the left side. The x number changes sign, so three comma two lands at negative three comma two.

A turn is called a rotation. Turn the point four comma one a quarter turn counter clockwise around the origin. Swap the numbers and make the new first number negative. It lands at negative one comma four.

Slides, flips and turns are called rigid motions. The shape moves, but its side lengths and angles stay exactly the same. The new shape is congruent to the first one. That means they match perfectly.

Now it's your turn. The point two comma five slides left three and down two. Where does it land? Pause and try. Two minus three is negative one, and five minus two is three. It lands at negative one comma three.

Great job! Remember, a slide adds to x and y. Flipping over the x axis changes the sign of y. Flipping over the y axis changes the sign of x. Practice transformations in Middle School Math at doodlebeez.com. See you next time!