In this lesson, we explore how to graph points on a coordinate plane and identify their respective quadrants. Each point is represented by an ordered pair, where the first number corresponds to the x-coordinate and the second number corresponds to the y-coordinate. To graph a point, you start at the origin (0,0) and move along the x-axis to the x-coordinate, then move vertically to the y-coordinate.
For example, to graph the point (1, -2), you would move 1 unit to the right on the x-axis and then 2 units down on the y-axis, placing the point in the fourth quadrant. Similarly, for the point (5, 2), you move 5 units to the right and 2 units up, locating it in the first quadrant. The point (-3, -4) requires moving 3 units to the left and 4 units down, which places it in the third quadrant. Lastly, for the point (-4, 3), you move 4 units to the left and 3 units up, positioning it in the second quadrant.
Understanding the quadrants is crucial: Quadrant I (top right) contains positive x and y values, Quadrant II (top left) has negative x and positive y values, Quadrant III (bottom left) features negative x and y values, and Quadrant IV (bottom right) includes positive x and negative y values. This systematic approach to graphing points and identifying their quadrants is essential for mastering coordinate geometry.