3-4
6th grade math
Choosing the Best Bar Graph
Objective
• To choose the type of graph that best
describes a set of numerical data and
relationships.
• Why? To know which type of graph will show
your information appropriately using the
correct format.
California State Standards
MR 2.4: Use a variety of methods, such as …
graphs, tables, … and models, to explain
mathematical reasoning.
MR 3.0: Move beyond a particular problem by
generalizing to other situations.
MR 2.0: Use strategies, skills, and concepts in
finding solutions.
Vocabulary
• Line Graphs (single or double)
– Show how a set of data change over time with the
horizontal axis showing the passage over time.
• Bar Graphs (single or double)
– Show specific numbers or comparison. Uses bars
horizontally or vertically.
• Pictographs
– Show specific numbers or comparison. Uses
pictures for representation. Can
• Circle Graphs
– Shows parts of a whole. It is easy to compare data
by looking at the sizes of the regions of the circle.
How to Choose the Best Graph
Choosing the best graph:
1) Look at the data that must
be graphed.
2) Decide: which type of
graph would be best to
display the data?
a) Bar graphs and
pictographs show
specific numbers, like
totals for a year, or
comparing (double).
3) Double check your choice.
5
4.5
4
3.5
3
2.5
2
Series 1
1.5
Series 2
1
0.5
0
How to Choose the Best Graph
Choosing the best graph:
1) Look at the data that
must be graphed.
2) Decide: which type of
graph would be best
to display the data?
a) Line graphs show
changes over time
3) Double check your
choice.
100%
90%
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
Series 3
Series 2
How to Choose the Best Graph
Choosing the best graph:
1) Look at the data that
must be graphed.
2) Decide: which type of
graph would be best
to display the data?
a) Circle graphs show parts
to a whole.
3) Double check your
choice.
Sales
1st Qtr
2nd Qtr
3rd Qtr
4th Qtr
Try It!
1) Which type of graph
would be best to
display data about
comedy shows and
dramas?
2) Which type of graph
would be best to
display data about the
cost of tickets over 4
years?
1) Double bar graph
2) Line graph
Try Some More!
1) Which graph types
could you use to
display information
about attendance over
4 years?
1) …
Pictograph
Line graph
Bar graph
2) What type would NOT
be best?
2) …
Circle graph
Objective Review
• To choose the type of
graph that best
describes a set of
numerical data and
relationships.
• Why? You now know
which type of graph will
show your information
appropriately using the
correct format.
Independent Practice
• Complete problems 2-6
– You may complete this
with a partner to talk
about your work.
• For extra points, explain
why…
• If still more time, work
on Accelerated Math.