LEARN NC

K–12 teaching and learning · from the UNC School of Education

Mathematics — Grade 3

Goal 3: Geometry - The learner will recognize and use basic geometric properties of two- and three-dimensional figures.

Objective 3.02. Use a rectangular coordinate system to solve problems.

  • Graph and identify points with whole number and/or letter coordinates.
  • Describe the path between given points on the plane.

Additional related resources

We’re in the process of aligning our content for students to the Standard Course of Study. As we do, you’ll find it here.

General resources

Aligned lesson plans

You sank my battleship
Students will learn how to plot ordered pairs using the coordinate plane and determine in which quadrant these ordered pairs lie. Students will show mastery of plotting ordered pairs by playing Battleship. Modifications have been added for Intermediate Low English Language Learners.
Format: lesson plan (grade 3–5 and 9–12 English Language Development and Mathematics)
By Theadore Taylor and Justine Busto.
Tabletop grids
Students will play a review game in small groups using large grids to develop skill in locating and naming points on grid maps.
Format: lesson plan (grade 3 and 5 Mathematics)
By Monica Delanoy.
Step right up!
The students will learn to name an ordered pair for a point and plot positions named by an ordered pair on a large grid located on the classroom floor.
Format: lesson plan (grade 3 and 5 Mathematics)
By Shelley Dodson.
Human coordinate graph
Students will actively learn how to plot ordered pairs on a coordinate plane. They will also learn how to connect ordered pairs to graph a picture.
Format: lesson plan (grade 3–5 Mathematics)
By Cheryl Sexton.

Resources on the web

Two runners
In this lesson, one of a two-part unit from Illuminations titled “Understanding Distance, Speed, and Time Relationships Using Simulation Software,” students physically demonstrate two scenarios involving rate of change, and then use software... (Learn more)
Format: lesson plan (grade 3–5 Mathematics)
Provided by: Illuminations
Telling racing stories
In this lesson, students model races in which runners start from various positions. They enter numbers in a table of values, model races on a coordinate grid, and compare the results. Students begin to develop an understanding of linear relationships. Illuminations... (Learn more)
Format: lesson plan (grade 3–4 Mathematics)
Provided by: Illuminations
Single runner
In this activity, students use a software simulation of one runner along a track. They control the speed and starting point of the runner, watch the race, examine a graph, and analyze the time-versus-distance relationship. This activity helps students understand,... (Learn more)
Format: lesson plan (grade 3–5 Mathematics)
Provided by: Illuminations
Running races
Students generate and compare paths which model given problem situations on graphing grids. Illuminations provides a class notes recording sheets, activity sheets, a fact mastery record, and detailed instructions for completing the lesson. Students... (Learn more)
Format: lesson plan (grade 3–4 Mathematics)
Provided by: Illuminations
Rescue mission game
Students play a game to learn about the four forces of flight: lift, drag, thrust, and weight. Illuminations provides an activity sheet and detailed instructions for completing the lesson. Students will: Identify and use the four forces... (Learn more)
Format: lesson plan (grade 3–4 Mathematics)
Provided by: Illuminations
Finding your way around: Graphing on the coordinate plane
In this lesson from Illuminations, students make their way around two-dimensional space in conceptually rich activities. The teaching activities are organized around two major conceptual categories: finding one's way around in the plane and using the plane... (Learn more)
Format: lesson plan (grade 3–4 and 6 Mathematics)
Provided by: Illuminations