Creating a Bar Chart for Third Graders (with links)

 

 Lesson Plan: Creating a Bar Chart for Third Graders 

Objective: Students will learn how to create a bar chart and use it to represent data. Materials:

• Large graph paper
• Markers or colored pencils
• Rulers
• Data to represent

Introduction:

• Show students examples of bar charts found in the world outside of the classroom, such as USA Today's Snapshots
  3
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• Explain that a bar chart is a simple way to present data to someone in a way that makes it easy to understand
  3
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• Discuss the importance of being able to read and create a graph, as it builds a foundation for future understanding of more complex data
  3
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Guided Practice:

• Review the parts of a bar chart, including the x-axis, y-axis, and bars
  1
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• Have students write 5-7 words or phrases that explain the process of creating a bar chart
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• Divide students into groups of 3 or 4 and assign group roles, such as Recorder, Questioner, Organizer, and Encourager
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• Provide students with data to represent, such as the number of pets owned by each student in the class.
• Have students work together to create a bar chart on the large graph paper, using markers or colored pencils to make it visually appealing
  1
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• Encourage students to take turns talking and working collaboratively
  1
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Independent Practice:

• Have students create their own bar chart using data they collect from a survey they create
  3
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• Provide students with graph paper, rulers, and colored pencils or markers to create their bar chart
  2
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• Instruct students to label the x-axis and y-axis, create bars to represent the data, and add a title to their chart
  2
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Conclusion:

• Have students share their bar charts with the class and explain what their data represents
  3
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• Discuss the importance of being able to represent data in a clear and concise way
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