Understanding Statistics: Graphs & Charts

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• Mathematics
• Primary Education

Understanding Statistics: Graphs & Charts

What do you already know about statistics and graphs?

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson you will be able to read, create, and interpret line graphs and pie charts, and explain what statistics mean.

Daily Maths Warm-Up

Quick: What is 37 + 28? Can you subtract 15 from 80? What is half of 42?

What is Statistics?

Why is it useful?

Statistics is the science of collecting and studying numbers and data to learn about things.

We use statistics to see patterns, make decisions, and understand information.

Definition

Where Do We See Statistics?

We see statistics in sports results, class surveys, weather reports, and many more places!

What is a Graph?

A graph is a way to show information as pictures, so it's easier to see and understand.

Introduction to Line Graphs

Line graphs use lines to show how something changes over time. Each dot is a point, and lines connect the dots.

Reading a Line Graph

Look at this line graph of daily temperatures. What is the hottest day? What is the coldest day?

Line Graph Activity

Draw the line to join the points: Monday 5°C, Tuesday 8°C, Wednesday 10°C, Thursday 7°C.

What is a Pie Chart?

A pie chart is a circle split into sections. Each part shows how much something is compared to the whole.

Example of a Pie Chart

This pie chart shows favourite fruit: Apples 40%, Bananas 30%, Grapes 15%, Oranges 15%. Which fruit is most liked?

Creating a Pie Chart

Draw a pie chart using this data: Dogs 6, Cats 4, Fish 2. Colour each section.

Pie Chart Activity

Which pet do most children have? Compare the sizes of each section in your chart.

Bar Charts: Another Useful Graph

Bar charts use bars to show numbers. Taller bars mean bigger numbers.

Reading a Bar Chart

This bar chart shows pets in our class. Which pet is the most popular? Which is the least?

Tally Charts

Tally charts use lines to count things. Five is a bundle. Try drawing tallies for 13 apples!

From Tally to Bar Chart

Use your tallies to make a bar chart. How many apples were counted?

Compare the Graphs

Why might you choose a line graph instead of a pie chart? When is a bar chart better?

True or False?

True or false?

True or false?

Pie charts are good for showing amounts compared to a whole.

Line graphs are best for showing change over time.

Plenary: What Did You Learn?

Share with a partner: What graph do you like best, and why? What new skill did you learn today?

Homework

Homework will be added here! Check the attached PDF for your assignments and pages.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.