When I saw students mix up coordinates, it was usually because one of the coordinates was 0.
![graphing on the coordinate plane graphing on the coordinate plane](https://www.k5learning.com/worksheets/math/grade-5-geometry-plotting-points-coordinate-grid-4q.gif)
Graphing on the axes can be particularly challenging. By the third day, you will be more successful graphing rational numbers. Then move to graphing on all 4 quadrants the second day. Start by just graphing in Quadrant I on the first day. I also ask students to label their graphs with “x-axis” and “y-axis.”ĭon’t overestimate students! It can be easy to think your 6th graders can graph on all 4 quadrants on day 1. I will model and require students to write a tiny right or left arrow over the x-coordinate and a tiny up or down arrow over the y-coordinate every single time they encounter a set of coordinates. Because graphing on the coordinate plane doesn’t require “showing work” like setting up a proportion, I have no problem asking students to annotate the coordinates. There are many memory tricks like “you have to crawl before you can climb” or “you have to cross the street before you can get on the elevator” to help students plan their steps. The most common misconception you will see is students moving up and down on the y-axis before moving right or left on the x-axis.
![graphing on the coordinate plane graphing on the coordinate plane](https://i.pinimg.com/474x/5b/8b/33/5b8b332d9efdae7d4494a397634b8db6--graphing-worksheets-common-core-math.jpg)
Today I will share some tips for teaching the complexities of this grid and some engaging activities that you and your students will love. If there is a unit that I look most forward to – it is this one!
![graphing on the coordinate plane graphing on the coordinate plane](https://www.mathplanet.com/Oldsite/media/27463/coordinateplane03.jpg)
It is hands-on, reinforces the ordering of rational numbers, and spans all of secondary education. The coordinate plane is a personal favorite of mine.