Distance on the Coordinate Plane (Grade 6)
When two points share a row (same y) or a column (same x), the distance between them is just the difference of the coordinates that change. From (2, 3) to (7, 3), only x changes: 7 − 2 = 5 units apart. Counting grid steps works too — but subtracting is faster and avoids miscounting.
Understanding distance on the coordinate plane
When two points share a row (same y) or a column (same x), the distance between them is just the difference of the coordinates that change. From (2, 3) to (7, 3), only x changes: 7 − 2 = 5 units apart. Counting grid steps works too — but subtracting is faster and avoids miscounting.
Key Idea
When two points share a row (same y) or a column (same x), the distance between them is just the difference of the coordinates that change. From (2, 3) to (7, 3), only x changes: 7 − 2 = 5 units apart. Counting grid steps works too — but subtracting is faster and avoids miscounting.
Seeing it in action
Worked example
Distance from (2, 3) to (7, 3)?
Same y (both 3), so subtract the x's: 7 − 2 = 5 units.
Same y-coordinate, so subtract x-values: 7 − 2.
Try a few
(1, 4) to (1, 9)?
same x; 9 − 4.
(0, 0) to (6, 0)?
(3, 2) to (3, 8)?
Coordinate Quest
A calm treasure-map game for plotting, reading, and translating points on a coordinate plane.
Ready for the interactive lab?
Practice distance on the coordinate plane in Numeris with instant feedback.
Master it in the workbook.
The Coordinate Geometry workbook is currently in editorial review.
Coming SoonWant a printable set too?
Get the free Reasonwell sample pack while the math workbook line is coming soon.