In this activity, we will learn how to interpret a coordinate grid with negative numbers. 

 

We have learnt how to read and plot coordinates on a coordinate grid with positive numbers.

Now we extend the grid in all directions to include negative numbers.

Look carefully at how the axes are numbered.

 

 

Look at the point A.

Its x-coordinate is -5 on the x-axis.

Its y-coordinate is -3 on the y-axis.

Remember the x number comes before the y number.

A has coordinates (-5, -3).

 

Look at the coordinates of all four points of the parallelogram, shown below.

Remember to read the x before the y.

 

 

Let's try an example question. 

 

Example

What are the coordinates of point B?

 

Answer

Its x-coordinate is 1 on the x-axis.

Its y-coordinate is -2 on the y-axis.

Remember the x number comes before the y number.

A has coordinates (1, -2).

 

Now it's time to try some questions yourself.