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Trapezoids and Kites

What special characteristics do trapezoids and kites have?

Goal:

Goal:

The last two quadrilaterals we will look at are trapezoids and kites. Work through the activity below to learn more about these common quadrilaterals.

First, take a look at each shape below. Use what you have learned about mathematical symbols to determine what characteristics each shape has that makes it easy to identify.

A trapezoid next to an isosceles trapezoid with two congruent angles and two congruent sides.
A kite with symbols representing two pairs of congruent sides and one pair of congruent angles.

What symbols do you notice on each shape?

What do these symbols tell you about these shapes?

Your Responses Sample Answers
You’re on the right track! Keep reading to find out more.
You’re on the right track! Keep reading to find out more.

Now that you have had a chance to examine each shape and share your thoughts, click each tab below to learn more about these special quadrilaterals.

A trapezoid next to an isosceles trapezoid with two congruent angles and two congruent sides.
  • The trapezoid on the left represents any trapezoid. The trapezoid on the right is special type called an isosceles trapezoid.
  • The trapezoid has one pair of opposite sides that are parallel. These sides are marked with arrows.
  • In an isosceles trapezoid, the sides that are not parallel are congruent. Also, the angles that come from the parallel sides are congruent. These are marked on the image above.
A kite with symbols representing two pairs of congruent sides and one pair of congruent angles.
  • Each pair of a kite's adjacent sides (the sides that are next to each other) is equal.
  • The angles where the pair of sides meet are congruent. In the figure above, these congruent angles are marked with one curved line.