Unit 3 · Transformations

3.3Reflections

Quick Answer

A reflection flips a figure over a line of reflection. Key rules: over x-axis: (x,y)→(x,−y); over y-axis: (x,y)→(−x,y); over y=x: (x,y)→(y,x); over y=−x: (x,y)→(−y,−x). Each image point is the same distance from the line as its pre-image.

Essential Question

How does a reflection transform coordinates, and what is the relationship between a point and its image with respect to the line of reflection?

Learning Goals

  • 1Reflect figures over the x-axis, y-axis, y=x, and y=−x.
  • 2Apply coordinate rules for reflections.
  • 3Find the line of reflection given a pre-image and image.
  • 4Verify that a reflection is a rigid motion.

Key Vocabulary

Reflection

A transformation that flips a figure over a line of reflection.

Line of reflection

The line over which a figure is reflected; each point and its image are equidistant from this line.

Full lesson content coming soon

Worked examples, guided practice problems, a workbook, quiz, and downloadable PDF resources will be added to this lesson in Phase 2. The learning goals and vocabulary above reflect the complete lesson scope.