Math Lesson
Reading the Story in the Box: Comparing Data Sets with Box Plots
Shared by A STEM Educator★ Featured Teacher · rated 90+ in our quality review
7th GradeBTC Style / Thinking ClassroomsCCSS.MATH.CONTENT.7.SP.B.3, CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.7.SP.B.440 min
Learning Objective
Students will compare two data sets displayed as box plots by analyzing measures of center (median) and spread (IQR and range) to draw evidence-based conclusions.
Lesson Overview
Students progress from reading a single box plot to comparing two box plots side-by-side, interpreting spread, center, and overlap to draw conclusions about real-world data sets.
Materials
- Vertical whiteboards or chart paper
- Dry-erase markers (at least 2 colors per group)
- Pencils and paper for note sheet
Scaffolded Task Progression
1Task 1
Here is a box plot showing Period 1's math test scores (out of 100).
[ Interactive graph / diagram, available in the full lesson ]
List the five-number summary for Period 1. Then find the Range and IQR.
[ Interactive graph / diagram, available in the full lesson ]
List the five-number summary for Period 1. Then find the Range and IQR.
2Task 2
Here is a box plot for Period 2's test scores. The five-number summary is NOT labeled — read the values from the number line yourself.
[ Interactive graph / diagram, available in the full lesson ]
Identify the five-number summary for Period 2. Then find the Range and IQR.
[ Interactive graph / diagram, available in the full lesson ]
Identify the five-number summary for Period 2. Then find the Range and IQR.
Unlock the full lesson
See all 5 scaffolded tasks, the full answer key, warm-up, exit slip, and a print-ready version — free to start.
Create a free accountAlready have an account? Sign in
Make it your own
Like this lesson but want to tweak it?
Make an editable copy and adjust the tasks, warm-up, and answer key to fit your class — no need to start from scratch.