Year 4 · Position and direction
Give the position of a point using two numbers
Definition
Coordinates locate a point on a grid using two numbers in brackets, (x, y). The first number is how far across, the second is how far up, measured from the origin (0, 0).
Why Do I Have to Learn This?
Coordinates pinpoint an exact spot using two numbers. Maps, video games and treasure hunts all rely on them.
Key Rules:
- 1. Always read across first, then up, "along the corridor, up the stairs".
- 2. The origin is the point (0, 0) where the axes cross.
- 3. Coordinates can be negative in the other three quadrants.
Remember:
- •(3, 2) and (2, 3) are different points, order matters.
- •The x-axis is horizontal, the y-axis is vertical.
- •Always plot x first then y: a negative x goes left, a negative y goes down.
Axis (axes)
The numbered lines running across and up a graph.
The bottom axis shows the days and the side axis shows how many books were read.
Animated Example:
Free Give the position of a point using two numbers Worksheet
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Before this: Position and direction (Year 2) · Next: Position and direction (Year 5)
Let’s Practise the Concept
Step 1 of 3
Put them in order
Tap the numbers from smallest to largest.
In order so far: nothing yet