NY Next Generation Math NY-8.G.4

Math8th GradeUnderstand congruence and similarity using physical models, transparencies, or geometry software.

The Standard

Know that a two-dimensional figure is similar to another if the corresponding angles are congruent and the corresponding sides are in proportion. Equivalently, two two-dimensional figures are similar if one is the image of the other after a sequence of rotations, reflections, translations, and dilations. Given two similar two-dimensional figures, describe a sequence that maps the similarity between them on the coordinate plane.

New York State Next Generation Mathematics Learning Standards

Teacher's field guide

What This Standard Means

What Students Need to Do

Students identify similar figures through congruent corresponding angles and proportional corresponding sides. They describe coordinate transformations, including a specified dilation, that map one figure to the other.

What Mastery Looks Like

The student verifies angle congruence and one consistent side-length scale factor. The student gives a valid sequence with a stated dilation center and scale factor.

Common Misconceptions

Students may call figures similar because they look alike without checking proportions. They may use different scale factors for different sides or omit the dilation center.

How to Assess It

Give two coordinate triangles with side scale factor 2. Ask students to verify similarity and describe a mapping sequence with a specified dilation center.

Lesson moves

Ways to Teach It

  1. Use grid transparencies to map one polygon onto a scaled copy through rigid motions and dilation.

  2. Ask students why equal angles alone establish similarity for triangles but not every polygon.

  3. Play Similar or Not by checking corresponding angles and side ratios on figure cards.

  4. Compare two scale drawings and identify the transformation sequence relating their coordinates.

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