Lines and the Coordinate Plane: The Coordinate Plane

Graphing Points

When we give the location of a point on the coordinate plane, we first give the horizontal distance from the origin called the x-coordinate or abscissa, then give the vertical distance from the origin called the y-coordinate or ordinate.

The set of the abscissa and ordinate is known as the coordinates of the point.  It is important to remember that the x-coordinate is listed first, followed by the y-coordinate.

Presentation Example: Coordinates of Points on the Coordinate Plane

Let’s work through an example of graphing points on a coordinate plane. Select the play button to begin the example, and then use the solve button to view the solution and use the navigation buttons to pause/stop the example. View the presentation as often as you would like, and take notes as you follow along.  Be sure to set your volume at a reasonable level before you begin.

Download the activity as a PDF.