Loci and constructions – WJECConstructing circles

To draw constructions you need a pencil, ruler and a pair of compasses. Loci are used to identify areas that satisfy criteria such as a given distance from a point or halfway between two lines.

Part ofMathsGeometry and Measure

Constructing circles

To construct a circle you will need a compass, a pencil and a ruler. You need to know the radius or diameter of the circle you wish to construct.

Open your compass to a distance equal to the radius of the circle (or half the diameter). Place the point of the compass at the centre of the circle and lightly draw the shape.

Circle with the diameter and radius marked. The raduis is labelled 7 cm. Below the circle is a compass with a pencil, and a ruler. The compass is opened opened to 7 cm.