- Definition
Relative position describes where something is by comparing it to other things around it, like saying "the book is on the table next to the lamp.
Saying 'the book is on top of the desk' describes the book's relative position.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: Relative position is like describing where a toy is by saying it's next to the bed or under the chair.
Ask your child: What is sitting right next to your cup?
Common mix-up: Kids might just say 'the ball is on the floor.' Relative position is about describing where something is by connecting it to something else, like 'the ball is next to the couch'.
Examples
- Describing a person as 'standing between two friends'.
- Saying the cat is 'under the table'.
- Pointing out that the sun is 'above the mountains' in a drawing.
relative position is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗
