Summary
While all graphs express data visually, bar graphs are especially helpful when it comes to comparing related groups of data. A bar graph’s title provides context, and in most (but not all!) cases, the x-axis shows the categories, while the y-axis shows the corresponding numbers. Keeping the scale consistent ensures that the bars can be accurately compared. Bar graphs are a handy tool for spotting patterns in data. They're also great for comparing values across categories, while solving one- and two-step word problems. Ready to start plotting and analyzing data? Press “play” to get graphing!
Viewer safety
Ages 7+
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Teaching resources
Discussion questions
A few questions to talk through after watching Bar Graphs:
- What is one new thing you learned about bar graphs?
- Can you explain it to a partner in your own words?
- Where might you see this in the real world?
- What is one question you still have?
Quick work-a-long
Try it:
- Write one sentence explaining bar graphs.
- Draw or give one example of your own.