Reflections

Here's how to do reflections, step by step.

Here's the problem.

First: Identify the Line you must reflect across.  In this case it's the y-axis, which is the line when all x are zero.

 Next, locate the points on the shape.  Point F is at (3, 5); V (3, 2) and X (5, 2).  Knowing this, you can use the distance from the y-axis to define the next points.  Each point must be the same distance from the line of reflection as its prime (').

So, F' is at (-3, 5); V (-3, 2) and X at (-5,2)  Notice how each point is the same distance away from the y-axis.  F' is 3 away, and F is 3 away too.

Finally draw in your lines.

Misconceptions:

1.  A reflection does not change any of the shapes angles or the lengths of any segments forming the shape.

2.  A reflection is based on a line, not a point.  The line can have any value, not just on the x-axis or y-axis.  Finding the line of reflection is based on how far the points are from each other, then plotting points halfway between until a line is formed.  This means the distance from the two shapes divided by 2.

3.  The shape should not "turn".  It is reflected, not translated and then rotated.