IGCSE Math RevisionEdexcel IGCSE Maths A (4MA1) · Foundation tier · Revision notes
IGCSE Maths 4MA1 Foundation Transformations Notes
Revision notes for vectors and transformation geometry at Foundation tier (Papers 1F and 2F, grades 5 to 1). Each sub-topic has what you need to know, the key methods, a common mistake and a worked example. Cover the worked solution and try the example first.
- 1 sub-topic
- Papers 1F and 2F
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5.2 Transformation geometry
What you need to know: translations with column vectors; reflections and rotations; enlargements with positive scale factors; describing transformations fully.
- A translation moves every point by the same column vector: the top number is the move right, the bottom number the move up.
- A reflection needs a mirror line, such as the x-axis, y = x or x = 2; a rotation needs a centre, an angle and a direction (anticlockwise is positive).
- An enlargement needs a centre and a scale factor; it keeps angles but multiplies lengths by the scale factor.
- To describe a transformation fully, name it and give all its details.
Watch out: A rotation described without its centre, or a reflection without its mirror line, loses marks.
Worked example (2 marks, grade 3):
Triangle \(A\) has vertices \((1, 2)\), \((3, 2)\) and \((3, 5)\). Triangle \(B\) has vertices \((1, -2)\), \((3, -2)\) and \((3, -5)\).
Describe fully the single transformation that maps triangle \(A\) onto triangle \(B\).
- Each x-coordinate stays the same and each y-coordinate changes sign.
- That is a reflection in the x-axis.
Answer: A reflection in the \(x\)-axis (the line \(y = 0\))
Higher tier only: vectors (all of 5.1).
Practise: Transformation geometry questions with answers · Unit 5 practice (Foundation) · Higher level: Transformations questions
Practise transformations
- Unit 5 practice with the Foundation filter on: questions written for Foundation and 4MA1 questions at grades 4 and 5, each with a mark scheme (IGCSE plan, with a free preview)
- Edexcel IGCSE Maths 4MA1 past papers, to practise under exam conditions
- IGCSE Maths formula sheet and the 4MA1 Higher revision notes when you are ready to go further