'Matrices' are so named because figures are presented in a 'matrix'. The matrix below contains two rows and two columns. The figures in the matrix are related across and down. One of the four boxes is empty and the child has to work out what the figure in this box would look like. Lets look at the relationship between the two boxes in the top row. The figures are identical in all respects except for the orientation of the line bisecting the square. Now work out what the missing figure would look like. (To check your answer move your mouse over the question mark.)
Instead of using the relationships across the rows we could have used the relationships in the columns to arrive at the answer. In the left-hand column the relationships are size (the square becomes larger), colour (the colour changes from red to orange), and the orientation of the line bisecting the square.
Of course, children are presented with a matrix and alternative answers. The question below is typical. Work out the correct answer using the relationships between the figures in the rows and columns (move your mouse over your answer to see if you are correct).
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Easy? Well, perhaps! The relationships are both 'mirror images'. Across the top of the matrix the relationship is a horizontal mirror image and from top to bottom the relationship is a vertical mirror image. There is also a colour change - 'red' changes to 'green' and 'green' changes to 'red'.
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