Unit 1, Section 2: Plotting the Clues

Section 2: Plotting the Clues

Overarching Themes

This section transitions students from raw data to meaningful visualization through the Analyze Data phase of the Data Cycle. Students move from basic identification of plot types to sophisticated interpretation, learning that different types of data require specific graphical representations to reveal patterns. By engaging in “Plot Walks” and digital analysis in CODAP, students become “Evidence Analysts” who can describe data distributions by their shapes (such as symmetric or skewed). Ultimately, the lessons emphasize that data visualization is not just about drawing graphs, but about purposeful “binning” and profiling to uncover the stories and “profiles” hidden within the evidence.

Daily Overview

Lesson Title	Vocabulary	Lesson Activities	GAISE Level B Guidelines
Lesson 8: Spot the Plot	bar graph dot plot pictogram histogram boxplot Analyze Data (phase)	Plot Walk: Students visit 5 stations to identify variables and plot types for the “Candy Culprit” dataset without labels	B.III.1: Represent variability of quantitative variables B.III.2: Learn key features of distributions
Lesson 9: Placing Categorical Variables Behind Bars		Physical Bar Graph: Students organize themselves into classroom corners based on their favorite candy CODAP Intro: Creating digital bar graphs to analyze “Activity” data	B.II.6: Interrogate data to determine variable types B.IV.1: Use statistical evidence to answer investigative questions
Lesson 10: Connecting the Dots	distribution maximum minimum	Sleep Dot Plot: Creating a physical dot plot using sticky notes on a whiteboard CODAP Analysis: Using GPA data to find the lowest and highest values (min/max).	B.III.1: Represent variability of quantitative variables B.III.2: Identify center and variability (range)
Lesson 11: The Plot Thickens (or Thins)	range bins binning bin width interval left-bound rule	Mystery Image: Using pointillism art to explain why grouping data (binning) is useful Histogram Tuning: Adjusting bin widths in CODAP to analyze “Library Books.”	B.III.1: Appropriate displays (histograms) B.IV.5: Recognize limitations/variability in data presentation
Lesson 12: The Shape of Data	shape symmetric skewed right skewed left uniform bimodal unimodal	Profile Match: Sorting “Histogram Shape Cards” into categories and giving them creative names Formal Profiling: Connecting creative shape names to formal statistical terms	B.III.2: Learn key features of distributions including shape and number of modes
Progress Check 2: Can You Analyze Evidence?		Investigative Task 1: Game Profiles Investigative Task 2: Game Score Distributions Investigative Task 3: Choosing the Right Tool for the Job Investigative Task 4: Zooming In and Out Investigative Task 5: Shape Sketching	B.III.1, B.III.2, B.IV.1: Comprehensive mastery of analysis and interpretation phases