Sample Standard: Plot points in the coordinate plane
Grade Level: Pre-Algebra, Algebra I
Time: 20 minutes
Materials: Pre-printed coordinate plane for each student Colored pencils
Group size: Any
Purpose: To use during a unit on coordinate planes as a revisiter.
Activity:
- Students are given a coordinate plane and are asked to mark four coordinates in a row with dots. The dots may go in any direction. Students are encouraged to make their "line" unique from other students around them.
- Ordered pairs of coordinates are drawn from a hat and read aloud by the teacher.
- Students mark the points on their coordinate planes with an X in "bingo style."
- Points continue to be called until one student marks out their original dots and says, "Four dots in a row."
- The student then reads the ordered pairs they X'd out back to the class.
- Small prizes may be awarded.
The coordinate planes can be of any size depending on the amount of time available.
Modification for Above-Level students:
After play is completed, students identify the slope and y intercept of their line.
2. Students write the equation of the line connecting their dots.
Modification for Lower-Level students:
Restrict the coordinate plane to quadrant one.
Submitted by Priscilla Shumway, training consultant with The Bob Pike Group and former teacher.
