DRAWING STEM-AND-LEAF DIAGRAMS

TASK 1 Organise a set of data into a stem-and-leaf diagram

The number of CDs owned by each student was recorded for a 68 53 89 74 93 76 78 52 59 70

year 8 class. Represent this data in a stem-and-leaf diagram. 85 60 88 75 72 82 68 74 67 79

Step 1: Determine the range of scores. Least number of CDs = _____ Most number of CDs = _____

Step 2: Decide on the stems.

The least number of CDs is between 50 to 59 so the first stem will be _____.
What will be the last stem? _____

Step 3: Enter the stems.

Stem Leaf

Step 4: Enter data in your rough working table. Cross off each score and write the last digit of each
score in the leaf column.
eg 68 53
Stem Leaf
5 3
6 8

Step 5: Order your data and add a key. Create an ordered stem-and-leaf diagram by putting the marks
in ascending order in each row. Make sure the numbers align both across in rows and down in columns.

Stem Leaf
Key:

EXTENSION Enter your own data into a stem-and-leaf diagram

Survey the number of items on each desk in your classroom, counting the number of pens and pencils
inside each pencil case as separate items. Represent this data as a stem-and-leaf diagram. Make up at
least three questions that can be answered from your diagram and try them out on your friends.