X Tables
Maths Adventures

Jungle maths quest: coordinates

A story-led junior maths adventure using bridges, vines and hidden temples to locate hidden items on grids and maps.

Quick answer

Coordinates are like a map that tells you exactly where something is on a grid. You use two numbers to find a spot – one for left and right (called the x-axis), and one for up and down (called the y-axis).

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to find and describe positions on a grid using coordinates with x and y values. Success signs:
  • You can say which number goes first and which goes second when giving coordinates
  • You can find a spot on a grid using two numbers
  • You can describe where you are on a grid using x and y coordinates
  • You can help a friend find a hidden item using coordinates

Why this matters

Coordinates are like a secret code that helps you find exactly where something is. You use them when you play games, build with LEGO, read maps, or even find treasure in a jungle adventure! In real life, GPS uses coordinates to help you find your way around. If you want to be a space explorer or an architect, you’ll need to know how to use coordinates. They’re also helpful for sports, like when a footballer needs to know where to kick the ball, or when a chef needs to know exactly where to put ingredients on a plate.

How it works

Coordinates are made of two numbers that help you find a spot on a grid. The first number tells you how far to go left or right, and the second number tells you how far to go up or down. These numbers are written in brackets like this: (x, y). Let’s break it down:
  1. Start at the bottom left of your grid – this is where the numbers begin.
  2. The first number (x) is how many steps you go across – left or right.
  3. The second number (y) is how many steps you go up – up or down.
  4. Move across first, then move up.

Examples you can see

Let’s imagine you are on a jungle adventure and need to find a hidden treasure. You have a map with a grid and a clue that says: “The treasure is at (3, 4).” Here’s how to find it:
  1. Start at the bottom left of the grid (where the x and y axes meet).
  2. Move 3 steps to the right (because the first number is 3).
  3. From there, move 4 steps up (because the second number is 4).
  4. You will land on the treasure!
Here’s a visual grid to help you imagine it:
Y axis 5 4 3 2 1 0
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
If you start at (0,0) and go to (3,4), you would:
  1. Move right to column 3
  2. Move up to row 4
You can also use coordinates to describe where things are. For example, if you’re playing a jungle game, you might say: “The monkey is at (2, 3).” That means the monkey is 2 steps to the right and 3 steps up from the bottom left.

Try it as a mini adventure

Jungle Maths Quest: The Hidden Temple You are on a jungle adventure and need to find a hidden temple. You have a map with a grid and clues. Here are your tasks:
  1. Find the treasure at (5, 2)
  2. Locate the bridge at (1, 4)
  3. Discover the vine ladder at (3, 5)
  4. Spot the hidden temple at (6, 3)
  1. Start at the bottom left of your grid
  2. Find the treasure at (5, 2)
  3. Find the bridge at (1, 4)
  4. Find the vine ladder at (3, 5)
  5. Find the temple at (6, 3)
Can you find them all? Draw a small jungle scene with a grid and mark where each item is located using coordinates.

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Thinking that the first number is up and down.
    Why it happens: Confusing the x and y axes.
    Fix: Remember: first number = left/right (x-axis), second number = up/down (y-axis).
  • Mistake: Moving up first, then across.
    Why it happens: Not understanding the order of coordinates.
    Fix: Always go across first, then up. You can use the phrase “across then up” to remember.
  • Mistake: Forgetting to start from the bottom left.
    Why it happens: Not knowing where the grid starts.
    Fix: Always start at the bottom left, which is (0,0).
  • Mistake: Thinking that (3, 4) and (4, 3) are the same.
    Why it happens: Not understanding that the order matters.
    Fix: Practice moving to (3, 4) and (4, 3) and see how they are different.

Parent and carer guide

Helping your child with coordinates is simple and fun! Here’s what to do in 5–10 minutes:
  1. Use a grid paper or a simple grid drawn on paper.
  2. Start with simple coordinates like (1, 1) or (2, 3).
  3. Play a game where you call out coordinates and your child finds them on the grid.
  4. Encourage your child to draw their own jungle map with coordinates.
  5. Ask questions like: “Where would the tree be at (4, 2)?”
What not to worry about:
  • Children may get confused at first – that’s normal.
  • Don’t rush them – take time to practice.
  • Use real-life examples like your house on a map or a game board.

Practice questions

  1. Where is the point (2, 3)?
  2. Find the point (5, 1).
  3. What coordinates are at the bottom left of a grid?
  4. Where would you go if you start at (0, 0) and move to (3, 4)?
  5. Which is correct: (2, 5) or (5, 2)?
Answers:
  1. 2 steps to the right, 3 steps up
  2. 5 steps to the right, 1 step up
  3. (0, 0)
  4. Move 3 steps right, then 4 steps up
  5. (2, 5) is correct – first number is left/right

FAQ

What are coordinates used for?

Coordinates help you find exactly where something is on a grid. They are used in games, maps, sports, and even in space travel to find planets and satellites.

How do I remember which number is which?

Use the phrase “across then up” to remember that the first number is for left/right (x-axis) and the second is for up/down (y-axis).

Can I use coordinates with any grid?

Yes! You can use coordinates on any grid, like a chess board, a map, or a game board. Just make sure you know where (0, 0) is.

Do I always start at the bottom left?

Yes, that’s the standard way. But sometimes in games or puzzles, the grid might start at a different place. Always check where (0, 0) is first.

Can I use coordinates in real life?

Absolutely! You use coordinates when you read a map, play a board game, or even when you give directions to a friend. GPS uses coordinates to help you find your way.