Review the integer number line, including positive and negative numbers. One method is to make a large paper number line on adding machine paper. Stretch the number line on the floor and tape it in place. Have students find points on the number line and stand on them.
Tape two number lines perpendicular to each other, so that the zero points are on top of one another. Label the horizontal number line as "x" and the vertical one as "y." Have students find the number on the correct axis and stand on it. Call out the axis letter (x or y) and the number. For example, calling out "Y 4" should lead the player to stand on positive four on the vertical number line.
Make a large grid with chalk on a smooth paved surface. Use a second color of chalk to highlight the X and Y axes. Show students how to locate an x,y position on the grid by walking along the x axis to the named point, then following the grid line to the named y point. Allow multiple trials for each student to practice the process.
Give students a paper grid with the same number lines as the chalk grid. Instruct the students to secretly mark points on their paper grids. Have students name the points they chose for partners to find on the giant chalk coordinate grid. Check to see if the student's place on the giant grid matches the named point and the marked point on the paper grid.
Assess student mastery of coordinate grid concepts by having students plot points in accordance with written directions. Provide instructions to draw simple figures using coordinate points and evaluate each student's understanding based on the accuracy of the drawings produced. One example would be: Start at 2,2. Draw a line to 2,-2. Draw the next line to -2,-2. Draw a line to -2,2. Finish the figure by drawing a line to 2,2.