Rigid Transformations: Translations

Introduction

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As a hook, ask students why translations are important in the real world. You can provide examples such as map navigation apps like Google Maps or food delivery services like Uber Eats. Refer to the last page of the guided notes as well as the FAQs below for ideas.

Use the first page of the guided notes to introduce translations and how to graph figures on coordinate planes after translation. Walk through the steps of translating a figure using arrow notation and discuss the concept of preimages and images. Emphasize that the size and shape of the figure does not change during translation, only its position. Then, teach students how to write rules for translation using arrow notation. Discuss the four possible translations: up, down, left, and right. Model how to write translation rules for given examples and encourage students to practice writing their own rules using the two examples in the "You Try" section.

Use the second page of the guided notes to give students practice on graphing figures after translations, writing rules, and writing ordered pairs after translations. Based on student responses, reteach concepts that students need extra help with. If your class has a wide range of proficiency levels, you can pull out students for reteaching, and have more advanced students begin work on the practice exercises.

Practice

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Have students practice translations using the practice maze worksheet activity. Walk around to answer student questions.

Fast finishers can dive into the color-by-number activity activity for extra practice. Alternatively, you can assign it as homework for the remainder of the class.

Real-Life Application

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Bring the class back together, and introduce the concept of real-life applications of translations. Explain to students that translations are used in many areas of daily life, such as navigation and programming movements for robots in manufacturing. Use the last page of the guided notes "Real Life Applications" and allow students to read about a real-life situation that uses translations. Students also reflect on their learning using the self-rating section on the page.

Additional Self-Checking Digital Practice

If you’re looking for digital practice for translations, try my Pixel Art activities in Google Sheets. Every answer is automatically checked, and correct answers unlock parts of a mystery picture. It’s incredibly fun, and a powerful tool for differentiation.

Here’s 1 activity to explore:

• Translation Digital Pixel Art | Rigid Transformations (winter themed)
• Rigid Transformations Digital Bundle (Translations, Reflections, Rotations, Dilation)

Additional Print Practice

A fun, no-prep way to practice translations is Doodle Math — they’re a fresh take on color by number or color by code. It includes multiple levels of practice, perfect for a review day or sub plan.

Here’s 1 activity to try:

• Rigid Translations Doodle Math Activity