How to Teach Graphing With Name Magnets

Since my students already have name magnets, I use these to teach them how to graph. Graphing is an important mathematical standard--and having these easily movable magnets comes in handy. Here is how to use name magnets for graphing.

Instructions

1. 

   Using magnets allows the kids to move and stack information much more easily than coloring in graphs on paper.

2. 

   Start with a simple name graph. Ask the kids, "how many letters are in your name?" Then have them place their name in the column that corresponds to how many letters their name contains.

3. 

   Summarize the data by asking them: "How many kids have 4 letters in their names?"

4. 

   Make sure the names are stacked neatly and evenly.

5. 

   Create several different graphs and have the kids simply move their magnets from graph to graph. They will love it!

6. 

   Have the kids graph all sorts of different things from favorite sports teams, favorite foods, pets--you name it--they will graph it!

Tips & Warnings

• Refer to my article on creating name graphs if you have not already made yours (see Resources below).

Resources

• How to Make Name Magnets