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Interpret line plots

Interpreting a line plot means relating each mark to a value on a number line and determining how often each measurement occurs, including measurements expressed in halves and fourths of a unit. This understanding supports comparing data, finding totals or differences, and solving addition and subtraction problems involving the plotted measurements; formal measures of center, variability, and generalized statistical analysis are not included.

Detailed Explanation: Interpret line plots

A line plot shows data on a number line. Each XX mark stands for one measurement. To interpret the plot:

  1. Read the values on the number line, including fractions such as 14\frac14 and 12\frac12.
  2. Count the XX marks above each value.
  3. Use the measurements and their counts to compare values or find a total or difference.

Suppose this line plot shows the lengths of pieces of ribbon, in inches:

Length14\frac1412\frac1234\frac3411(114)(1\frac14)
Marks(XX)(XX)(XXX)(XXX)XX(XX)(XX)XX

Question: What is the total length of all the ribbon?

Step 1: Match each group of marks to its value.

  • Two pieces are 14\frac14 inch: (2×14)(2 \times \frac14)
  • Three pieces are 12\frac12 inch: (3×12)(3 \times \frac12)
  • One piece is 34\frac34 inch: (1×34)(1 \times \frac34)
  • Two pieces are 11 inch: (2×1)(2 \times 1)
  • One piece is (114)(1\frac14) inches: (1×114)(1 \times 1\frac14)

Step 2: Add the amounts.

2(14)+3(12)+1(34)+2(1)+1(114)2\left(\frac14\right)+3\left(\frac12\right)+1\left(\frac34\right)+2(1)+1\left(1\frac14\right) =12+32+34+2+114=\frac12+\frac32+\frac34+2+1\frac14

Step 3: Add the fractions.

Convert to fourths:

24+64+34+84+54=244=6\frac24+\frac64+\frac34+\frac84+\frac54 =\frac{24}{4}=6

The total length of the ribbon is 66 inches.

Learn by doing: Interpret line plots

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    Graphing - Line Plot - Read Value

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