Graphs are used to display information visually. They can show very quickly concepts that would need very lengthy written descriptions. Graphs take many forms. There are bar graphs, pie charts, and line graphs. This project will show students how art can be combined with other subjects, in this case math, to produce graphs. Simple data collection (surveys) will be used in this project as well.

Grade Levels

Grades 3 through 8.

Time Required

Up to three class periods (45 - 60 minutes a period).

Lesson Objectives

To develop and promote an awareness of the uses of art materials and concepts in the creation of visual information charts and graphs. Math and simple data collection techniques will be used as well to produce the information needed for visual presentation.

Procedure

1. Use class discussion to determine the type of information that would be interesting to show in graph form. The example graph above shows how a class of 30 students responded in a survey that asked their favorite color from a list of six colors. Each student can create individual surveys.
2. Create a survey form that lists choices for the data to be collected.
3. Collect the data.
4. Analyze and compute the data.
5. Discuss various forms of graphs and determine which would work best for the information collected: bar, pie, or line.
6. The next step in the process of creating a graph is to compute and determine visual information. The example above shows a bar graph with six items to be displayed. The width of each bar was determined by measuring the available area within which to display them and using division to determine the width of each bar and the spacing between them. Vertical dimensions were determined the same way.
7. For pie charts, division is used to determine the ratios of each item to be shown. Next, the ratio of each item is converted to a percentage which is then divided into the circumference of a circle (360°). Using a protractor, lay out the angles on colored paper.
8. Lay out grid lines on the background paper and use colored pencils to make them visible.
9. Glue the colored bars, segments, or lines to the background paper.

Assessment

Each finished graph should conform to the basic process of the lesson. Each graph should clearly show the information for which it was developed. Each graph should be easy to read and interpret. Check cutting, gluing, and proportions.

Extended Lesson

The graphs can be as simple or as complex as the age level of the students will allow. The use of color will enhance a work. Charts and graphs that show visual information are important for presentations to groups. Knowing how to produce charts and graphs that are interesting, colorful, and informative is a helpful academic skill.