11-Plus Non-Verbal Reasoning: Shape Analogies

Understanding Shape Analogies

Shape analogies are a crucial component of the 11-plus Non-Verbal Reasoning exam, focusing on the relationships between different shapes. This topic requires students to analyze how one shape transforms into another and apply the same transformation to a new pair of shapes.

What are Shape Analogies?

In a typical shape analogy question, the format is as follows: Shape A is to Shape B as Shape C is to ___. The task is to identify the transformation that occurs from Shape A to Shape B and then apply that same transformation to Shape C to determine the answer.

Types of Transformations

Students must be familiar with various transformations that can occur between shapes:

• Rotation: Turning a shape around a fixed point.
• Reflection: Flipping a shape over a line to create a mirror image.
• Size Change: Increasing or decreasing the dimensions of a shape.
• Addition/Removal of Elements: Adding new parts to a shape or removing existing ones.

Example of Shape Analogies

Worked Example

Problem: If Shape A is a square and Shape B is a rectangle formed by extending one side of the square, what shape would correspond to Shape C, which is a triangle?

Solution:

• Identify the transformation from Shape A (square) to Shape B (rectangle): The square is transformed by extending one side.
• Apply the same transformation to Shape C (triangle): Extend one side of the triangle to create a new shape.
• The answer is a trapezoid, formed by extending one side of the triangle.

Preparation Tips

To excel in shape analogies, students should practice regularly with various shape transformation exercises. Resources such as BBC Bitesize and dedicated 11-plus preparation books can provide valuable practice questions.

Understanding shape relationships not only aids in 11-plus exams but also enhances overall spatial awareness and visual problem-solving skills.