Collecting, representing, and interpreting data using spreadsheets and graphing software: Collecting and examining weather data
http://standards.nctm.org/document/eexamples/chap5/5.5/
A lesson plan for Grade 5 Science, Mathematics, and Computer Technology Skills
About this resource
- Appropriate grades
- 5
- Subjects
- mathematics (general), science (meteorology)
- Provider
- National Council of Teachers of Mathematics
Legal
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Spreadsheets and graphing software are tools for organizing, representing, and comparing data. This activity illustrates how weather data can be collected and examined using these tools. In the first part, Collecting and Examining Weather Data, students organize and then examine data that has been collected over a period of time in a spreadsheet. In the second part, Representing and Interpreting Data, students use the graphing functions of a spreadsheet to help them interpret data. Working on activities like these, students learn to set up a simple spreadsheet and use it in posing and solving problems, examining data, and investigating patterns.
E-Math Investigations are selected e-examples from the electronic version of the Principles and Standards of School Mathematics (PSSM). The e-examples are part of the electronic version of the PSSM document. Given their interactive nature and focused discussion tied to the PSSM document, the e-examples are natural companions to the i-Math investigations.
North Carolina Curriculum Alignment
Computer Technology Skills (2005)
Grade 5
- Goal 2: The learner will demonstrate knowledge and skills in the use of computer and other technologies.
- Objective 2.04: Use spreadsheet terms/concepts and functions (e.g., median, range, mode) to calculate, represent, and explain content area assignments. Strand - Spreadsheet
- Objective 2.05: Modify/create and use spreadsheets to solve problems by performing calculations using simple formulas and functions (e.g., +, -, *, /, average). Strand - Spreadsheet
Mathematics (2004)
Grade 5
- Goal 4: Data Analysis and Probability - The learner will understand and use graphs and data analysis.
- Objective 4.01: Collect, organize, analyze, and display data (including stem-and-leaf plots) to solve problems.
- Objective 4.03: Solve problems with data from a single set or multiple sets of data using median, range, and mode.
Science (2005)
Grade 5
- Goal 3: The learner will conduct investigations and use appropriate technology to build an understanding of weather and climate.
- Objective 3.02: Discuss and determine how the following are affected by predictable patterns of weather:
- Temperature.
- Wind direction and speed.
- Precipitation.
- Cloud cover.
- Air pressure.
- Objective 3.05: Compile and use weather data to establish a climate record and reveal any trends.
- Objective 3.02: Discuss and determine how the following are affected by predictable patterns of weather:
