Lesson 5: Introduction to Graphing & Ordered Pairs

• What does an ordered pair tell us?
• How do we read coordinates?
• Why is order important in (x, y)?
• What do the axes represent?

Ordered pair, coordinate, x-axis, y-axis, origin, quadrant, plot

CCSS.MATH.6.NS.C.6, CCSS.MATH.6.NS.C.8

Description: Students are introduced to coordinate planes using relatable contexts (city maps, treasure hunts). They learn that ordered pairs (x, y) tell us where to go: first move along the x-axis, then the y-axis. Using large grid paper and manipulatives, they physically plot points. Purpose: To develop spatial reasoning and connect algebraic representations to visual/geometric ones. DOK Level: 2 (Application)

• Concrete to abstract: Start with large floor grids, move to paper grids
• For struggling learners: Use only Quadrant I (positive numbers)
• For advanced learners: Include all four quadrants with negative numbers
• Kinesthetic: Students walk on floor grids to plot points with their bodies

• Observation: Can students correctly identify x and y coordinates?

• Plotting worksheet: Plot 6-8 ordered pairs on a grid

• Reverse task: Given a point, write the ordered pair

• Scavenger hunt: Find and plot hidden points on a coordinate plane

• Large coordinate grids (floor and paper)

• Ordered pair cards

• Coordinate plane worksheets

• Treasure hunt maps

• Resource: Desmos "Graphing Points"