Shape · Space · Measures
5.2.1 Translations — The Vector Shifter
Drag the sliders. Watch every coordinate transform. Master the column vector.
⬡ Vector Shifter
← −6+6 →
↓ −6+6 ↑
Translation vector:
+4-3
+4 → Right
-3 → Down
⚡ Logic Track
A translation slides a shape to a new position. It does not rotate, reflect, or resize it.
📐 The Column Vector
ab
Top number (a) = Left / Right
Bottom number (b) = Up / Down
⚠️ Examiner Trap
A negative top means move LEFT. A negative bottom means move DOWN. Students often flip these — don't!
Try the sliders. Notice the shape keeps exactly the same size and orientation — only position changes.
📐 Dynamic Solver — Cambridge Style
Method (AO1)
A(x, y) translated by vector (a/b):
A′ = (x + a, y + b)
A′ = (x + a, y + b)
Live Working — Vector (+4, -3)
| Point | Original | Calculation | Image |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | (1, -1) | (1+4, -1-3) | A′ (5, -4) |
| B | (3, -1) | (3+4, -1-3) | B′ (7, -4) |
| C | (1, -3) | (1+4, -3-3) | C′ (5, -6) |
✓ Mark Scheme Note
For full marks: label the image (A′B′C′), plot all three vertices correctly, and state the translation vector clearly as a column vector — not as "right 4, down 3."
5.2.1 Translations · Edexcel 4MA1 · Shape, Space & MeasuresGen Z Study · Iron Man HUD · © 2026
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