The following concepts are important to help your child understand representing data.

Sector graphs represent data in a circular format, where each sector (or slice) shows a portion of the whole and the entire circle.

Divided bar graphs represent data in a rectangular format, divided into segments. The length of each segment corresponds to the proportion of the whole.

Sector graphs and divided bar graphs show how different parts contribute to a whole. Each sector or segment represents a percentage or fraction of the total. These graphs allow for easy comparison of the parts within each category as well as the overall totals across different categories.

Improvements in technology provides new, creative ways to display data ways. Graphs still need certain features, such as a title, labels, and axes with a consistent scale, to help understanding. Scatter plots, radar charts, heat maps and bubble charts are additional graph types your child may come across.

• Infographics combine images, graphics and text to present information in an engaging and visually appeal way. They simplify data by highlighting key points without overwhelming the viewer. This allows readers to understand important information quickly through symbols, charts, and images. Highlighting titles, labels and different images helps to interpret infographics.
• Misleading data – A misleading graph is a visual representation of data that can give a false impression or misinform the reader about the actual information being presented. Techniques include using inappropriate scales, selecting only some of the data (‘cherry picking’) or using the wrong type of graph. Check data displays to make sure:
  • the axes have a consistent scale and are not missing values
  • all data is included
  • sector and divided bar graphs are used to show parts of a whole
  • line graphs are used to show changes over time.

These activities engage your child in hands-on learning experiences, developing data collection, observation, and analysis skills in a fun and interactive way.

• Conduct a survey: Organise a small survey to gather information on your family or friends’ preferences and put the results in a graph. Use topics like favourite colours, foods, types of holiday or car brands.
• Explore infographics: Find an infographic that display data about a topic of interest. Discuss and interpret the information and identify the important features with your child.
• Analyse everyday graphs: Discuss graphs you see in daily life and how they convey information. Look for opportunities in newspapers, magazines, utility bills or online articles.

The following concepts are important to help your child understand percentages.

• A benchmark percentage is a commonly used percentage that supports solving problems and is used as a reference point when estimating other percentages. 50%, 25%, 10%, 5% and 1% are examples of benchmark percentages.
• A bar model supports the visualisation of a maths problem using rectangular bars as representation of the quantities, and the relationships between quantities. Using a bar model supports mathematical reasoning and problem solving skills.

By practising these activities at home, you can help your child strengthen their skills when using percentages.

• Shopping discounts: when shopping, involve children in calculating discounts and savings using percentages. For example, ask them to calculate what 20% off a $50 item would be.
• Puzzles and riddles: Create puzzles or riddles that involve percentages. For example, if a store is offering a 30% discount on a $100 item, how much will you pay?
• Everyday percentages: Discuss everyday activities where percentages are used, such as sports statistics, sales discounts, or interest rates. Ask children to calculate percentages based on these activities.