Unit Plan 33 (Grade 3 Math): Data Displays—Picture/Bar Graphs & Line Plots
Choose and interpret scaled picture graphs, bar graphs, and line plots in Grade 3 math to compare data, answer how-many-more/fewer questions, and write precise comparative statements using clear titles, labels, scales, keys, and units.
Focus: Choose appropriate data displays (scaled picture graphs, bar graphs, and line plots), interpret results, and generate questions and comparative statements with precise labels, scales, and units.
Grade Level: 3
Subject Area: Mathematics (Measurement & Data)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 45–60 minutes per session
I. Introduction
Students compare and create common data displays—picture graphs, bar graphs, and line plots—then use them to ask and answer questions, including how many more/fewer comparisons and simple two-step situations. Emphasis is on choosing the best display for a data set, labeling axes/keys precisely, and writing clear comparative statements.
Essential Questions
- Which data display (picture graph, bar graph, or line plot) best represents this data set, and why?
- How do scales, keys, and units affect what we can see and say about the data?
- What makes a strong comparative statement (e.g., “__ more than,” “__ fewer than”)?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Construct picture graphs and bar graphs with clear titles, axes, scales/keys, and categories.
- Measure lengths to the nearest 1/2 or 1/4 inch (as available) and represent data on a line plot.
- Ask and answer one- and two-step questions, including how many more/fewer, using information from graphs.
- Write precise comparative statements and explain choices of display, scale, and units.
- Check for reasonableness and correct labels to improve clarity (MP.6).
Standards Alignment — CCSS Grade 3
- 3.MD.3: Draw picture graphs and bar graphs to represent data; solve one- and two-step “how many more/less” problems.
- 3.MD.4: Generate line plots of measurement data measured to the nearest 1/2 and 1/4 inch; solve problems using the data.
- 3.OA.3: Use multiplication and division within 100 to solve word problems in situations involving equal groups (applied to comparative graph questions).
- Mathematical Practices: MP.6 (Attend to precision).
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can choose a data display that fits my data set and explain why.
- I can label titles, axes, units, and keys/scales clearly so others understand my graph.
- I can answer how many more/fewer questions and write clear comparative statements from a graph.
- I can check my work for precision and fix labels, scales, or units if needed.