Learn on PengiReveal Math, Course 1Module 10: Statistical Measures and Displays

10-7 Interpret Graphical Displays

In this Grade 6 Reveal Math lesson from Module 10, students learn how to interpret dot plots and histograms by analyzing the distribution of data for symmetry, clusters, gaps, and peaks. Students practice selecting the most appropriate measure of center and variation — mean and mean absolute deviation for symmetric distributions, or median and interquartile range for non-symmetric ones — and use those measures to describe real-world data sets. This lesson builds core statistical reasoning skills aligned with the Course 1 curriculum.

Section 1

The Anatomy of a Distribution (Peaks, Clusters, and Gaps)

Property

When looking at a dot plot or a histogram, do not just look at the individual numbers. Step back and look at the overall pattern. You can describe any data distribution by identifying three key visual features:

  • Peak: The tallest point(s) on the graph, showing the most frequent data value or interval.
  • Cluster: A group of data points that are grouped tightly together in one specific area.
  • Gap: A noticeable empty space or interval on the number line where absolutely no data exists.

Examples

Section 2

The Shape of the Data (Symmetric vs. Skewed)

Property

Beyond clusters and gaps, the overall shape of a dot plot or histogram reveals the "personality" of the data.

  • Symmetric Distribution: The left and right sides of the graph are roughly mirror images. The data is balanced perfectly around the center.
  • Skewed Right (Positively Skewed): Most of the data is clustered on the left, with a long "tail" stretching out to the right side.
  • Skewed Left (Negatively Skewed): Most of the data is clustered on the right, with a long "tail" stretching out to the left side.

Examples

Book overview

Jump across lessons in the current chapter without opening the full course modal.

Continue this chapter

Module 10: Statistical Measures and Displays

  1. Lesson 1

    10-1 Statistical Questions

    LearnPractice
  2. Lesson 2

    10-2 Dot Plots and Histograms

    LearnPractice
  3. Lesson 3

    10-3 Measures of Center

    LearnPractice
  4. Lesson 4

    10-4 Interquartile Range and Box Plots

    LearnPractice
  5. Lesson 5

    10-5 Mean Absolute Deviation

    LearnPractice
  6. Lesson 6

    10-6 Outliers

    LearnPractice
  7. Lesson 7Current

    10-7 Interpret Graphical Displays

    LearnPractice

Lesson overview

Expand to review the lesson summary and core properties.

Expand

Section 1

The Anatomy of a Distribution (Peaks, Clusters, and Gaps)

Property

When looking at a dot plot or a histogram, do not just look at the individual numbers. Step back and look at the overall pattern. You can describe any data distribution by identifying three key visual features:

  • Peak: The tallest point(s) on the graph, showing the most frequent data value or interval.
  • Cluster: A group of data points that are grouped tightly together in one specific area.
  • Gap: A noticeable empty space or interval on the number line where absolutely no data exists.

Examples

Section 2

The Shape of the Data (Symmetric vs. Skewed)

Property

Beyond clusters and gaps, the overall shape of a dot plot or histogram reveals the "personality" of the data.

  • Symmetric Distribution: The left and right sides of the graph are roughly mirror images. The data is balanced perfectly around the center.
  • Skewed Right (Positively Skewed): Most of the data is clustered on the left, with a long "tail" stretching out to the right side.
  • Skewed Left (Negatively Skewed): Most of the data is clustered on the right, with a long "tail" stretching out to the left side.

Examples

Book overview

Jump across lessons in the current chapter without opening the full course modal.

Continue this chapter

Module 10: Statistical Measures and Displays

  1. Lesson 1

    10-1 Statistical Questions

    LearnPractice
  2. Lesson 2

    10-2 Dot Plots and Histograms

    LearnPractice
  3. Lesson 3

    10-3 Measures of Center

    LearnPractice
  4. Lesson 4

    10-4 Interquartile Range and Box Plots

    LearnPractice
  5. Lesson 5

    10-5 Mean Absolute Deviation

    LearnPractice
  6. Lesson 6

    10-6 Outliers

    LearnPractice
  7. Lesson 7Current

    10-7 Interpret Graphical Displays

    LearnPractice