Coordinates and Directions
Construct a grid coordinate system that uses coordinates to locate positions within a space; use coordinates and directional language to describe position and movement.
Read this first
Coordinates give an exact place. Across first, then up.
(3,2) means 3 across and 2 up.
Words you need
- Coordinates
- A pair of numbers that give an exact place.
- Origin
- Where both lines meet. It is (0,0).
- Axis
- One of the two number lines.
Worked example
e.g. Plot the point (4,3).
- Start at the origin, where the lines meet.
- The first number is across. Move 4 to the right.
- The second number is up. Move 3 up.
- Mark the point. That is (4,3).
Across before up. Every time, without exception.
Practice
The pictures fade as you go. By the last few you are on your own.
1What are the coordinates of this point?with a picture
Answer(2,5).
2Where is (5,1)?with a picture
AnswerFar right, near the bottom.
3Is (2,5) the same point as (5,2)?with a hint
Need a hint?
Which number is across?
AnswerNo. They are different places.
4You are at (1,1). Move 3 right and 2 up. Where are you?with a hint
Need a hint?
Add to each number.
Answer(4,3).
5What are the coordinates of the origin?on your own
Answer(0,0).
6Describe how to get from (0,0) to (3,4).on your own
Answer3 right, then 4 up.
7Why does order matter in coordinates?on your own
Answer(2,5) and (5,2) are different places.
Think about it
1
Why do we always go across first?
One good answerSo everyone reads the same point the same way.
2
How is this like a grid reference?
One good answerBoth use two numbers to find one place.
Common mistakes
Going up before across.
Across is always first.
Counting squares instead of lines.
Coordinates mark a point, not a square.