In Grade 5, students learn the parts of the coordinate plane, the origin (0, 0) and the x- and y-axes, and plot ordered pairs in the first quadrant.
In an ordered pair like (3, 5), the first number tells how far to move right along the x-axis, and the second tells how far to move up.
Official benchmarkIdentify the origin and axes in the coordinate system. Plot and label ordered pairs in the first quadrant of the coordinate plane.
On the FAST test: part of the Grade 5 reporting category Geometric Reasoning, Measurement, and Data Analysis and Probability, which is about 23–29% of the test.
Worked Examples
Worked Example 1
Plotting a Point
(3, 5)
1Start at the origin (0, 0).
2Move 3 units right along the x-axis.
3Move 5 units up. Mark the point.
Answer: 3 right, 5 up
Worked Example 2
Points on an Axis
(4, 0) and (0, 2)
1(4, 0): move 4 right and 0 up, so it sits on the x-axis.
2(0, 2): move 0 right and 2 up, so it sits on the y-axis.
Answer: (4, 0) is on the x-axis; (0, 2) is on the y-axis
Common Mistakes to Watch For
Switching x and y
Wrong:(3, 5) plotted as 3 up and 5 right
The first number is always across (x), the second is up (y). Remember: "run before you jump."
Starting from 1 instead of 0
Wrong:(2, 4) plotted one square too far
Start counting from the origin (0, 0), not from the first grid line.
Helpful Math Tip
"Walk before you climb": move right along the hallway first (x), then up the stairs (y).
Independent Educational Platform. FastChomp is published by Tropical Learning LLC and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by the Florida Department of Education. FAST and Star assessment names are referenced for informational purposes only. FastChomp practice questions are original educational materials, not official Florida FAST assessment questions.
