Patterns in shapes

Look at these two shapes.

The shape on the left is a scribble -- there is no regularity to it.

But the shape on the right definitely has some structure. Here are some of its properties:

• the opposite sides are parallel and the same length
• all the angles are equal
• it is symmetrical about vertical and horizontal mirror lines.

These properties are like rules that tell you how the shape is made. So this shape has a definite pattern.

An exploration of shapes and their properties should therefore be included in patterning activities.

Many of these shapes (like the rectangle above) can be found everywhere around us; others may be constructed using the ideas that arise in exploring our environment.

Shapes can also be used as units in repeating patterns and growing patterns.