Data Handling: Simple Pictograms
To develop ability to collect, record, and interpret data using simple pictograms.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Mathematics
- Learning area: Mathematics
- Level: EYFS Reception
Objectives
- Collects simple data
- Creates basic pictogram
- Interprets pictogram data
- Compares groups using data
Materials
- Data collection sheets
- Pictogram templates
- Class survey question cards
- Sticky notes for data collection
Instructions
Begin with a question children genuinely care about: 'What's your favourite fruit — apple, banana, or strawberry?' Children vote physically first (hold up hand, go to a corner) so they feel the data before it's recorded.
Record data in a simple pictogram: each child's choice gets one picture in a column. 'Mia chose banana — one banana sticker in the banana column. Kai chose apple — one apple sticker in the apple column.' Complete together as a class.
Ask questions about the completed pictogram: 'Which fruit got the most votes? How can you tell without counting? Which got fewest? How many more children chose banana than strawberry?' These questions develop data interpretation.
Children then create their own small-group surveys. 'Ask five friends: what's your favourite colour? Record their answers on your sheet, then draw a pictogram.' This is the full data cycle at Reception level.
Compare two pictograms: 'Last month we asked about fruit. This month we asked about pets. Which survey showed more variety? Were people's choices similar or different?' Cross-data thinking develops statistical reasoning.
Celebrate completed pictograms as 'our research' — display them with the question and interpretation written as a class: 'We found out that more children like banana than apple.' This values their mathematical work.