standard_description: Use a pair of perpendicular number lines, called axes, to define a coordinate system, with the intersection of the lines (the origin) arranged to coincide with the 0 on each line and a given point in the plane located by using an ordered pair of numbers, called its coordinates. Understand that the first number indicates how far to travel from the origin in the direction of one axis, and the second number indicates how far to travel in the direction of the second axis, with the convention that the names of the two axes and the coordinates correspond (e.g., x-axis and x-coordinate, y-axis and y-coordinate).
problem_activity: Narrative
The purpose of this activity is for students to practice drawing and describing figures with points, lines, line segments, rays, angles (right, acute, obtuse), and perpendicular and parallel lines.
Students draw two-dimensional figures and then describe it to their partner. Their partner attempts to draw the figure without seeing it, making it important to use precise language to communicate important features of the figure (MP6).
Representation: Develop Language and Symbols.
Provide students with access to definitions or reminders of recently learned terms, such as: ray, line segment, right angle, acute angle, obtuse angle, perpendicular lines, parallel lines.
Supports accessibility for: Memory, Conceptual Processing, Attention
Required Materials
Materials to Gather
Rulers or straightedges
Launch
Groups of 2
Activity
5 minutes: independent work time
8–10 minutes: partner work time
Monitor for diagrams that reflect a variety of geometric features.
Monitor for students who consider both geometric features and measurement in the description.
Student Facing
Create a two-dimensional shape that has at least 3 of the following:
ray
line segment
right angle
acute angle
obtuse angle
perpendicular lines
parallel lines
Without showing your partner, describe the figure so that your partner is able to draw it as best as possible.
Switch roles, and draw your partner’s shape based on their description.
Student Response
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Activity Synthesis
Invite previously selected students to share.
“What would have helped your partner make a more accurate drawing?” (If I described the measure of the angle, measure of the line segment, the location, a grid, using a straight edge)


aligns: no