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Home > Topdrawer > Patterns > Misunderstandings > Tessellations

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Tessellations

Tessellations

Some shapes fit together to make a two-dimensional repeating pattern that leaves no gaps. This type of pattern is called a tessellation.

While some shapes fit together to make a two-dimensional repeating pattern that leaves no gaps, this is not possible for other shapes.

Compare how squares and circles fit together in a rectangular pattern.

P_CM_M5_fig1
P_CM_M5_fig2

A pattern of shapes that fit together without any gaps is called a tessellation. So squares form a tessellation (a rectangular grid), but circles do not.

Tessellations can also be made from more than one shape, as long as they fit together with no gaps.

P_CM_M5_fig3

Through exploring how shapes fit together, students can learn much about those shapes. They can learn about the number and lengths of the sides of each shape, as well as the angles at the corners. They can also encounter concepts such symmetry, congruence, similarity and parallels.

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Name Class Section
Document Triangles tessellate Folder 17
Document Making tessellations Folder 17
Document Growing patterns can tessellate Folder 17
Document Year 1: Recognise and classify familiar two-dimensional shapes and three-dimensional objects using obvious features Infobox 3
Document Year 2: Describe and draw two-dimensional shapes, with and without digital technologies Infobox 3
Document Year 3: Identify symmetry in the environment Infobox 3
Document Source Infobox 3