Translation language
A shape can move 3 squares right and 2 squares up without changing its orientation.
A translation keeps the shape the same way round.
Year 5
Identify, describe and represent the position of a shape following a reflection or translation, using the appropriate language
Describe the movement and position of shapes after a translation or reflection using precise language.
Lesson overview
Geometry - position and direction
Translation slides a shape without turning it. Reflection flips a shape across a mirror line. We describe these movements clearly by saying how far and in which direction the shape moves, or where the mirror line is.
Reflection language
A reflection makes a mirror image across a line.
same size
Each point stays the same distance from the mirror line.
Describe the position
Use words such as left, right, up, down and across the line of reflection.
Use precise movement language.
Worked example
A triangle is translated 4 squares right and 1 square up. Describe the movement.
- The shape has not turned or changed size.
- Count the horizontal movement first: 4 squares right.
- Count the vertical movement next: 1 square up.
- The translation is 4 squares right and 1 square up.
Round 1: Learn it
Use movement words accurately and keep translation and reflection separate.
Finish this round to unlock Round 2: Show you know it.
Question 1
Which movement slides a shape without turning it?
Question 2
Which movement creates a mirror image?
Question 3
A shape moves 3 squares right and 2 squares up. What is this called?
Question 4
A shape moves 5 squares left. How many squares did it move?
count
Question 5
Which statement is true about a reflection?
Common mistakes
Watch for these as you work through the lesson.
- Saying a translated shape has turned.
- Forgetting to mention the direction of movement.
- Confusing reflection with translation.
Related topics
These ideas connect closely to this lesson.
- Read and plot coordinates in the first quadrant and translate simple shapes.
- Identify angles at a point and one whole turn, on a straight line and at a point on a line, and use these facts to find missing angles.