Graphing Rainbows

Graphing Rainbows

SUBJECT:

Mathematics

GRADE LEVEL:

4-6

OBJECTIVES:

1. TLW collect and organize data into a spreadsheet


2. TLW find the mode, mean, and median of a set of data


3. TLW choose a type of graph to create on a spreadsheet

RESOURCES/MATERIALS:

• computer, printers, and integrated software package


• M&M candies

ACTIVITIES:

1. Have the students form into groups to count the amounts of each different color of M&M candies and record the data


2. Once they have collected their data, they should enter it into their spreadsheet and generate a graph of their choice.


3. After each group has generated their graph, each group will discuss their results. These results will be recorded into a second spreadsheet so that the mean, median, and mode can be calculated.


4. After they complete the exercises that they did in class, they will email Dr. Math at his address "http://forum.swarthmore.edu/dr.math/ " and tell them his results and ask him how they might be able to display and record their information in another form.

FOLLOW-UP:

Evaluation will be determined on how well each group was able to generate the graph and to calculate the mean, median, and mode. Extension activities would include writing a survey on the class' favorite cola, candy bar, etc. They would then record the data and generate graphs as they did in the previous activity. Once they completed the graphs, they will open the word processor and write and article using the data for the class newspaper.