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Grade 2 Math Units

Unit Plan 25 (Grade 2 Math): Data Cycle—Measure, Record, Represent, Interpret

Investigate a class question, measure to the nearest whole unit, organize data, and create line plots or bar graphs with clear titles/labels/scales to make claims supported by evidence.

Dr. Michael Kester-Haynes

• 6 min read
Unit Plan 25 (Grade 2 Math): Data Cycle—Measure, Record, Represent, Interpret

Focus: Plan and carry out a class investigation, measure to the nearest whole unit, organize data, and create line plots and bar graphs with clear titles/labels/scales to write claims supported by evidence.

Grade Level: 2

Subject Area: Mathematics (Measurement & Data • Mathematical Practices)

Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 35–45 minutes per session

I. Introduction

Students experience the full data cycle: pose a question, measure items to the nearest whole unit, record results, choose a representation (line plot or bar graph), and interpret findings. Emphasis is on precision (MP.6) and using representations to model and communicate ideas (MP.4).

Essential Questions

  • How do we measure carefully so our data is trustworthy?
  • When should we use a line plot vs. a bar graph?
  • How do we turn data into a clear claim with evidence from our graph?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

  1. Plan a simple class investigation and gather measurement data to the nearest whole unit.
  2. Record/organize results in tables and tally charts, then create line plots and bar graphs with appropriate titles/labels/scales.
  3. Interpret graphs to answer questions (how many more/fewer, most/least, total) and write claims supported by evidence from the display.
  4. Use precise units and vocabulary while explaining reasoning (MP.6) and modeling with math (MP.4).

Standards Alignment — CCSS Grade 2

  • 2.MD.9: Generate measurement data by measuring to the nearest whole unit; show the measurements on a line plot with a horizontal scale marked in whole-number units.
  • 2.MD.10: Draw a picture graph and a bar graph (with single-unit scale) to represent a data set; solve simple put-together, take-apart, and compare problems using information presented in the graphs.
  • Mathematical Practices: MP.4 (Model with mathematics), MP.6 (Attend to precision).

Success Criteria — Student Language

  • I can measure to the nearest whole unit and record my results correctly.
  • I can make a line plot or bar graph with a clear title, labels, and scale.
  • I can write a claim about my data and back it up with evidence from my graph.