Picture graphs and bar graphs can represent whole-number quantities by category, with a key or scale such as 1, 2, 5, or 10. Solving a two-step question requires extracting the relevant values, carrying out linked additions and/or subtractions—such as finding a combined amount and then comparing it with another category—and interpreting the result in the context of the data. The work remains within straightforward whole-number quantities, not fractions, decimals, or formal statistical analysis.
A graph uses pictures or bars to show amounts. First, read the key or scale. Then find the amounts you need and solve the question in two steps.
Here is a picture graph showing books read:
| Book topic | Books |
|---|---|
| Adventure | ■ ■ ■ ■ |
| Animals | ■ ■ ■ |
| Space | ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ |
Key: Each ■ represents books.
Question: How many more Adventure and Animals books were read together than Space books?
Step 1: Find the number of books in each category.
Step 2: Find the combined number of Adventure and Animals books.
There were Adventure and Animals books together.
Step 3: Compare the combined amount with the Space amount.
Answer: There were more Adventure and Animals books together than Space books.
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