Lesson 2: Graph Data Using Ordered Pairs

Property

The location of a point in the plane is given by an ordered pair $(a, b)$, where $a$ is the $x$-coordinate and $b$ is the $y$-coordinate. Starting at the origin, move along the $x$-axis to the right if the $x$-coordinate is positive, and to the left if it is negative. From there, move up if the $y$-coordinate is positive, and down if it is negative.

Examples

• To plot the point $(3, 4)$, you start at the origin, move 3 units to the right along the x-axis, and then move 4 units up.

• To plot the point $(5, 2)$, you start at the origin, move 5 units to the right along the x-axis, and then move 2 units up.