Symmetry Game: Guess my Grid

Here is a fun game for practicing symmetry. The game can be played in pairs or as a whole class, and it’s based on the game Battleship. Each player uses a grid to create a symmetrical pattern. An 8×8 grid works well.

You can have students make their own grids using graph paper or you can download the game here for free.

Tips for playing:

• Your students should already have some experience with symmetry before you play this game. Knowing that the pattern is symmetrical makes the puzzle easier to solve.

• If you are teaching this to a class, you can teach them how to play by making a symmetrical pattern yourself. Display a blank grid on the overhead. Have your students guess grid boxes (using a letter and a number to identify the box), and fill in your pattern as they guess correctly. This is also fun to do as a student-led game.
• When playing in pairs, each partner will need two blank grids, one to create a pattern on and one to use for guessing his or her partner’s pattern.
• When playing with partners, make sure students know to use only one color and that their designs may be horizontally, vertically, or diagonally symmetrical.
• You can create a fun homework assignment by sending two empty game sheets home and having your students play with a friend or family member.

If you like math games, you may want to check out these two bundles: Math skills and Math Word Problems.