Masking Tape Bar Graph

Suggested age for this project: 6-12 years old

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Overview

Graphing data can sound a bit dull, but it is a great way to learn about how to compare and contrast data as well as an opportunity to learn about prediction and probability. Let’s make graphing a fun STEAM activity by creating a colorful bar graph on the floor with masking tape. I used BAM! Tape™ to create the graph and to record the data. You can also use legos or blocks to record your data if you have the necessary quantities and colors. If you include your students in the process of creating the graphs and data markers, then they will spend some time planning, measuring, cutting, sorting and counting… nothing wrong with that!

Materials

  • 1 inch wide colored masking tape, 7 colors
  • Ruler
  • Marking pen such as a Sharpie
  • A standard 6 sided die
  • Scissors
  • Clip board or other smooth surface to hold your data markers

Let's Make It!

 

Step 1: Create Your Data Marker Squares

Choose 6 colors to represent your data.

Take a piece of masking tape and stick it on a ruler, allowing the ruler’s measurements to show at the top.

Draw a line on your tape at 1 inch measurements.

Remove the tape from the ruler and cut the tape on the lines.

Stick the tape squares on the clip board.

Repeat these steps until you have 12 squares of tape in each of your 6 colors.

Step 2: Color Your Die

Take a piece of BAM! Tape™ masking tape in each color and cover each side of your die in a different color. I just stuck a piece of tape on the die and then trimmed around the edges.

Step 3: Tape the Graph Components on the Floor

First tape an “L” wide enough for 6 1 inch data markers, and tall enough for 20 1 inch data markers. I wanted 1/2 inch spacing between my bars, and I wanted my x and y axis to connect, so my “L” is 9 1/2 inches wide and 20 inches high.

Along the bottom edge of the graph (more commonly referred to as the x axis or horizontal axis), mark the space for each bar color and label it. I just used my Sharpie to write the first letter of each color.

Along the left edge of the graph (more commonly referred to as the y axis or vertical axis) use a ruler to mark 1 inch increments and label them 1 – 20 beginning at the bottom of the axis.

Step 4: Predict

Based on the number of colors and the number of rolls, how many times will the die land on each color? Write down your predictions so that you can compare them to your results after you analyze your data.

Step 5: Collect Data

Roll the die.

Whatever color it lands on, take a tape square of the same color and put it in the corresponding area of the graph, starting at the bottom.

Keep going until you have rolled the die and recorded the data 20 times.

Step 6: What Does Your Data "Say"?

Now it is time to look at your data and discuss the results.

Here are some great discussion questions:

  • How many times did each color show up in our 20 rolls?
  • Are your predictions reflected in the data?
  • Are the probabilities reflected in the data?
  • What may have influenced your results?
  • Would you get the same results if you did the whole thing over again?
  • How can we use this type of graph to measure something out in the real world?

Wrap It Up!

Well, are you all STEAMed up? I love this graphing activity, especially with all the fun colorful masking tape. The best part is when the kids come up with other ways that they can use bar graphs as a way to represent and analyze data. This graphing method can also be scaled down and included in a report for a school project as either a photograph, or make the graph on paper and slip it into a transparent sleeve. I know that you will find plenty of ways to use your BAM! Tape™ bar graph for creative and fun learning activities!
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