Reading Graphs and Tables

What are tables and graphs?

Tables and graphs are visual representations. They are used to organize information to show
patterns and relationships.

A graph is a diagram that shows a relationship between two or more changing things by lines,
bars, dots, or portions of a circle. They come in many shapes and sizes. And these graphics help
organize information or categorize and compare data.
 A table is an organized display of information through rows and columns. This format makes it
easy to compare information over a period of time. Tables are also a way of presenting data in a report
and an organizer to assist comprehension and thinking. 

How do we read graphs and tables?

Strategies for Reading Tables and Graphs

1. Read the labels and units

When you come across a graph or table, read the title as well as any additional labels like
on the x- or y-axis or column headers. Knowing the basic labels and units on the graphs/tables
can help you quickly understand the data.

2. Pay attention to types of change

Pay attention to whether a table or graph is showing independent amounts or cumulative
amounts of change.

3. Compare tables and graphs.

Note what makes the tables the same and what makes them different. Ask yourself,
“What is this showing me?”
 4. Connect information in a table with what is in the passage
In order to understand the tables and graph, you need to understand the passage itself and
understand how they relate to the passage.

5. Make inferences – what can you conclude?

You need to keep a critical eye and be sure that you are inferring a conclusion that is
aligned with what the data will support.

Before we start reading graphs and tables, here are the main parts of information that we need to
remember:

1. The introduction:
 “This graph shows…”
 “This table represents…”

2. The topic
 “…the total percentage of…”
 “…the result of…”

3. The timeframe
 “...from the 1st quarter…”
 “…over the past 6 months…”

Graphs can also vary in degree or speed:

a little substantially wildly

little by little slowly dramatically

moderately quicky/rapidly

significantly slightly
considerably gradually

For Example:

“This line graph shows monthly sales from January to December.”

“As you can see, overall sales have decreased gradually from 50,000 in January to 5,000 in December.”

“Sales have decreased between January and March, but gradually increased in April.”

Cat Dog
GIRLS 8 5
BOYS 3 7

“The table shows 8 girls and 3 boys love cats, while 5 girls and 7 boys love dogs.”

“As you can see, girls love cats than dogs and boys love dogs than cats.”

“There is a total of 11 people who love cats and 12 people who love dogs.”
Importance of an Organized Graphs and Tables

 It explains more information in lesser time than pages of an essay.

 Makes comparison easier.
 Highlights the important information.
 Easier and faster decision making.

References:

https://arbs.nzcer.org.nz/tables-and-graphs

https://theolivebook.com/5-strategies-for-reading-tables-and-graphs/

https://www.realsciencechallenge.com/helping-students-better-interpret-graphs/

https://sciencing.com/analyze-graphs-8482849.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CmPiD89OU3A