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Grade 6 Math Units

Unit Plan 28 (Grade 6 Math): Displaying Data—Dot Plots, Histograms, Box Plots

6th graders learn to construct and interpret dot plots, histograms, and box plots while choosing the best display for a given data set. Students explore how bin widths, scales, and display types reveal different insights about shape, center, and spread.

Dr. Michael Kester-Haynes

• 6 min read
Unit Plan 28 (Grade 6 Math): Displaying Data—Dot Plots, Histograms, Box Plots

Focus: Create and interpret visual displays; choose an appropriate display for the question and data type.

Grade Level: 6

Subject Area: Mathematics (Statistics & Probability — Data Displays)

Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 45–60 minutes per session

I. Introduction

Students learn to represent numerical data on a number line using dot plots, histograms, and box plots. They practice deciding which display fits which question, how to construct each display (bin widths, five-number summary), and how to interpret shape, typical values, and variability at an informal level (building on Unit 27).

Essential Questions

  • What makes a good data display for a given question and data set?
  • How do dot plots, histograms, and box plots each show shape, center (typical), and spread differently?
  • How do bin choices and scales affect the story a graph tells?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

  1. Construct dot plots, histograms (with sensible bin width), and box plots (from a five-number summary).
  2. Read and interpret each display to describe clusters, gaps, peaks, and overall spread; identify a typical value.
  3. Choose an appropriate display based on the question, data type, and purpose (show individuals vs show distribution shape vs compare groups).
  4. Communicate interpretations in clear language tied to the context and units.

Standards Alignment — CCSS Grade 6

  • 6.SP.4: Display numerical data in plots on a number line, including dot plots, histograms, and box plots.
  • Mathematical Practices emphasized: MP.1 (make sense), MP.4 (model), MP.5 (tools), MP.6 (precision), MP.7 (structure), MP.3 (justify choices).

Success Criteria — Student Language

  • I can make a dot plot, histogram, and box plot from data.
  • I can explain what the display shows about typical values and spread.
  • I can pick the best display for a question and give a reason (what it shows best).
  • I can label scales and units and write a clear data story.