GCSE Maths Practice: congruence-and-similarity

Question 5 of 10

This question assesses understanding of similar shapes, key for GCSE geometry and scale problems.

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\( \begin{array}{l}\text{Which statement correctly describes similar shapes?}\end{array} \)

Choose one option:

Focus on angle equality and proportional sides. Size may differ.

Similar shapes maintain the same angles and proportional sides, but their overall size may differ. Recognizing similarity allows students to solve problems using scale factors, ratio reasoning, and geometric proofs. For instance, corresponding sides of similar shapes are proportional, meaning each side is multiplied by the same scale factor. Angles remain identical. This principle applies in maps, models, architectural drawings, and diagram interpretations. Differentiating between congruence and similarity is crucial: congruent shapes are identical in size and shape, while similar shapes share angles but not necessarily size. Practicing comparisons and scale calculations reinforces visual and numerical understanding. Many GCSE problems involve identifying similar shapes or using proportionality to calculate unknown lengths.