Ocean Census: Scaled Graphs at the Marine Sanctuary
Shared by A STEM Educator
Students will be able to read and construct scaled picture graphs and bar graphs (scales of 2, 5, or 10) using multi-category marine biodiversity data, and solve one- and two-step 'how many more' and 'how many less' problems using graph data. (CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.3.MD.B.3)
Lesson Overview
Students progress from reading single-unit bar graphs to constructing scaled picture graphs and bar graphs using marine sanctuary data, culminating in solving two-step comparison problems. All work happens collaboratively at vertical non-permanent surfaces (VNPS) in random groups of 3.
Materials
- Vertical whiteboards or chart paper taped to walls
- Dry-erase markers (multiple colors per group)
- Erasers or paper towels
- Random grouping cards (pre-made)
- Printed data reference cards (one per group)
- Rulers or straight edges
- Consolidation note sheets (one per student)
Scaffolded Task Progression
| Animal | Count |
|---|---|
| Sea Turtle | |
| Dolphin | |
| Octopus | |
| Clownfish |
A bar graph is already drawn on your board with a scale of (each line = animal). Fill in the bar heights to match the data. Then answer: How many MORE dolphins than octopuses were spotted?
| Animal | Count |
|---|---|
| Sea Turtle | |
| Dolphin | |
| Octopus | |
| Clownfish |
Your board has a bar graph with a scale of (each line = animals). Draw the bars. Then answer: How many FEWER octopuses than clownfish were spotted?
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