Understanding Graphs and Charts

Print version of "Part 5: Toolkit": PDF • Word

The teacher will want to introduce the purposes and types of graphs and charts. A graph sends a powerful visual message. There are many kinds of graphs, including pictographs, bar graphs, line graphs, and pie charts.

Talk with students about the features and purposes of each type of graph/chart.
Show examples, and have the students tell what each communicates to the reader.
Discuss what is appealing about pictographs, about bar graphs, about line graphs, and about pie charts.
Explain the rules that apply to all graphs and charts:
- Always include a title that clearly states what the graph illustrates.
- Label the graph or chart so what is represented by each axis or segment is clear.
- State on the graph what real measurement each vertical and each horizontal unit represents.
Have students draw each type of graph/chart. Depending on the grade level and experience of the class, students may be able to create graphs or charts using computer software.

Top of Page