The idea, step by step
A grid reference names a cell
Maps can be split into columns and rows. On this map the columns are A, B, C and D from left to right. The rows are 1, 2, 3 and 4 from bottom to top. A reference such as B3 names the whole cell in column B and row 3.
Read the labels, not a guess
Write the letter first and the number second because that is this map’s stated rule. Find the column, then the row. Grid references name cells here, not the crossing of two lines. Other maps may label rows differently, so check before using them.
A common trap
Reading B3 as row B, column 3 or as a line crossing.
Instead: Use this map’s key: letter column first, numbered row second, naming the cell.
See the thinking
Find the library
What is the library’s grid reference?
- The library lies in column B.
- Its row is 3.
- Write the column letter before the row number.
Find a named cell
Which place is in cell C2?
- Find column C.
- Move along row 2 to its cell.
- Read the place in that cell.
Check your understanding
What is the grid reference of the park on the supplied map?
Show answer
D1.
The park is in column D and row 1.
Your turn
6 questions · 7 marks · Work at your own pace.
Read the questions online
- Write the grid reference of Home.1 mark
- Write the grid reference of School.1 mark
- Name the place in A4.1 mark
- Name the place in B3.1 mark
- Which reference follows this map’s rule: 2 C or C2?1 mark
- Explain why D4 identifies a cell rather than one exact point inside the school.2 marks
Read the worked solutions
Equivalent correct methods earn the corresponding marks. Include units where asked.
- Write the grid reference of Home.1 mark
Home is in column A, row 1.
A1. - Write the grid reference of School.1 mark
School is in column D, row 4.
D4. - Name the place in A4.1 mark
Column A and row 4 meet at the pool cell.
Pool. - Name the place in B3.1 mark
Column B and row 3 meet at the library cell.
Library. - Which reference follows this map’s rule: 2 C or C2?1 mark
The column letter comes before the row number.
C2. - Explain why D4 identifies a cell rather than one exact point inside the school.2 marks
Grid-cell references are different from point coordinates.
The reference names the entire column-D, row-4 box. It does not describe a point within it.
Curriculum reference & lesson scope
Australian Curriculum v9 / SA Curriculum Mathematics 2026
Letter–number references; positions; directions; pathways.
Official curriculum source ↗