Transformations

MathematicsAQAEdexcelGCSEUnit: Geometry & Measures
Free taster
5 of 6 sections open
The basics

Moving Shapes Around

Moving Shapes Around

When you slide your phone across a table, that's a translation. When you look in a mirror, that's a reflection. When you spin a fidget spinner, that's a rotation. When you zoom in on a photo, that's an enlargement. These four transformations are how we move and resize shapes in maths!
The four transformations
Exam tip

Earn the mark scheme marks

Common Mistakes

X Just saying "rotation" without details Always state centre, angle, and direction Incomplete description loses marks
X Confusing CW and ACW CW = clockwise (like clock hands) ACW = anticlockwise (opposite direction)

Now try it yourself

Quiz · Question 1 of 16

A translation is described by the vector (3, −2). What does this mean?

Tap an answer to check it

Revise every Mathematics topic, free during alpha

Transformations is one of 127 topics on PrepWise — all aligned to your exam board.

Start revising free →