Graph Lesson Plan

This lesson plan is used to show the similarities and differences in various forms of data.  Students will create their own bar graph, pie graph, line graph, tally chart, and/or line plot using data collected from the class. The graphs will be then be used to compare, predict, and draw conclusions about the data.  This lesson also includes a song about the different types of graphs and their uses. This acitivity begins with whole group instruction to review and introduce types of graphs. Students will use one set of data, their favorite restaurant, to create a bar graph, line graph, pie graph, pictograph, a tally table, and/or line plot.The information provided for favorite type of restaurant will not allow the user to create a stem and leaf plot or line graph, not enough information will be given. An adaptation by the teacher will have to be added if they wish to create a stem and leaf plot and line graph. 

Weblink address (URL): 
Graph Lesson Plan

Standards & Objectives

Learning objectives: 

Concepts: The different types of graphs and how to use them

Objectives:

The students will:

  •  identify the different types of graphs.
  •  discuss the reason each graph is important.
  • create their own tally chart and graph.

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Creating
Differentiation suggestions: 

This could be used as differentiated instruction or an assessment as students are working on their own to create their charts and graphs. From there, students will compare the graphs they have made to discuss similarities and differences. 

Helpful Hints

Some instruction on data needs to take place before this lesson is taught.

Materials:

  • A graphing packet that includes an example of each type of graph (bar, line, circle, picture, stem-and-leaf plot) and a tally chart.
  • Colored paper should also be inside the packet; must have at least two pieces, one for the graph and one for tally chart.
  • Bar graph= green paper, line graph= red paper, circle graph= white paper, picture graph= yellow paper, stem-and-leaf plot= pink paper, and a white piece of paper in each packet for the tally chart (write this on the board for students to see)
  • Markers and crayons
  • Overhead projector (optional)

 

References

Contributors: 
Katie Sumner
Originator: 
Ayers Institute for Learning & Innovation