Games on How to Graph for Kids

A bar graph is used for business.

The definition of a graph, according to PBS Parents, is "a drawing or diagram that shows the relationship between numbers using pictures, bars or lines." The graphs are actually referred to as picture graphs, bar graphs and line graphs. Teaching students about graphs can be fun. There are many ways to incorporate graphs into games and activities. For example, fruit stickers can be sorted into groups of each fruit. Each group is then counted, and the answers are graphed.

Mathematic Magnets

Each child creates a magnetic person to represent him. Write a question to be graphed on the board every day before the students arrive. For example, what month is your birthday? Create a large graph, before class, where the students can put their magnetic person in the area corresponding to their answer to the graph question. After doing this for some time, count the magnets on a simple graph and then create line and circle graphs with all of the information.

Graphing a Cleaned-Out Desk

This game not only helps students with graphing, but also helps them to clean out and organize their desks. Students remove all items from their desks and categorize them according to folders, textbooks, notebooks and pencils. The students will then graph the results of what was in their desk. Bar and picture graphs are good options for this game. It can also be combined with recycling by having the students decide if each item can be "reduced, reused or recycled."

Graphing Our Favorites

Divide students into groups of five, each group deciding on one question to poll its classmates with. For example, what is your favorite animal? Each student in a group must come up with at least one question option to ask the class. The students select their question and choose five possible answers to the question. The group then stands in front of the class and asks the other students the question. The answers can be placed in a picture, bar or line graph created by each group on its own large poster to be displayed in the room.

Questions From a Graph

Locate graphs, charts or tables in newspapers and magazines. Cut out the items previously mentioned and glue them onto card stock. Write five to seven questions pertaining to the graph or chart under the picture and then laminate the item. Place the graph, along with blank sheets of paper and writing utensils, in a central location of the room. Have each student answer all of the questions.

References

• I Love That Teaching Idea!: Math Ideas
• PBS Parents: Early Math Glossary