Grade 6 · Data · Data Displays and Distributions

Compare Data Distributions

Two data sets can share the same mean but differ greatly in spread. Graph choice and scale affect what readers notice.

The big idea

Centre and spread tell different parts of the story

The range measures the distance from the least to greatest value; mean, median, and mode describe typical or central values.

Work it through

1. Both sets have a mean and median of 6.
2. First range: 8 − 4 = 4.
3. Second range: 10 − 2 = 8.
4. Conclude that the second set is more spread out even though the centres match.

For parents and educators

Grade 6 Mathematics · Strand D: Data

View supported expectations

D1.3 · Data Visualization

Select from among a variety of graphs, including histograms and broken-line graphs, the type of graph best suited to represent various sets of data; display the data in the graphs with proper sources, titles, labels, and appropriate scales; and justify their choice of graphs.
D1.4 · Data Visualization

Create an infographic about a data set, representing the data in appropriate ways, including in tables, histograms, and broken-line graphs, and incorporating any other relevant information that helps to tell a story about the data.
D1.5 · Data Analysis

Determine the range as a measure of spread and the measures of central tendency for various data sets, and use this information to compare two or more data sets.
D1.6 · Data Analysis

Analyse different sets of data presented in various ways, including in histograms and broken-line graphs and in misleading graphs, by asking and answering questions about the data, challenging preconceived notions, and drawing conclusions, then make convincing arguments and informed decisions.