Pre-Algebra
Geometry
Coordinate geometry — plotting and quadrants
20 practice questions
0 video lessons
Theory + worked examples
Coordinate Geometry — Plotting and Quadrants
Texas Pre-Algebra (TEKS) • Standard 6.11(A) • Geometry
Coordinate Geometry — Plotting and Quadrants is a topic in Geometry in the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills. It is aligned to Standard 6.11(A), which requires students to plot points in the coordinate plane and identify quadrants.
The coordinate plane locates points by ordered pairs \((x,y)\); the axes divide it into four quadrants.
Theory
The coordinate plane uses an \(x\)-axis and \(y\)-axis to locate points by ordered pairs \((x,y)\).
Four quadrants (I–IV) run counter-clockwise from the top-right.
The four quadrants.
Plotting points.
An ordered pair:
\[(x,y):\ x\text{ across, then }y\text{ up}\]
The origin is \((0,0)\).
How to plot a point
- Start at the origin.
- Move \(x\) right (or left if negative).
- Move \(y\) up (or down if negative).
- Mark the point.
Example 1 — Plot
Where is \((3,2)\)?
Solution
Right \(3\), up \(2\) — Quadrant I.
Example 2 — Quadrant
Which quadrant holds \((-4,1)\)?
Solution
Left and up — Quadrant II.
Example 3 — Signs
What are the signs in Quadrant III?
Solution
Both negative.
| \((-,-)\) |
Example 4 — On an axis
Where is \((0,-5)\)?
Solution
On the \(y\)-axis, below the origin.
Common pitfalls
\(x\) comes first, then \(y\).
Quadrant signs: I \((+,+)\), II \((-,+)\), III \((-,-)\), IV \((+,-)\).
Points on an axis are in no quadrant.
Frequently asked questions
What is an ordered pair?
\((x,y)\): x across, y up.
How many quadrants are there?
Four.
Where is the origin?
At \((0,0)\).
Which quadrant is \((-4,1)\)?
Quadrant II.
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