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Year 6 - Maths

Identify and describe the relationship between irregular polygons using scale factors

Ratio and proportion

Unit Summary

In this unit pupils will describe the relationship between two factors, representing the relationship in different ways. They will build to using a ratio grid to calculate unknown values.

Lesson Summary

You can identify and describe the relationship between two irregular polygons using scale factors.

Key Notes

  • Two similar shapes can be described as being 'x' times greater or smaller than each other.
  • If one similar shape is smaller than another, the scale factor is a fraction.
  • Shapes related by a scale factor are similar.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Irregular polygon: An irregular polygon is a polygon where the sides and angles are not all equal

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Not comparing the same or corresponding sides of related shapes.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.

Two similar shapes can be described as being 'x' times greater or smaller than each other. If one similar shape is smaller than another, the scale factor is a fraction.

2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Irregular polygon'

An irregular polygon is a polygon where the sides and angles are not all equal. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.

3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.

Mistake: Not comparing the same or corresponding sides of related shapes. Correction: Label the sides of shapes clearly and refer to them with consistent language of height and width.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 6 Maths guide library.