Graphing Checklist
Quality Check Before You Submit · Statistics Self-Assessment
Ngā Whāinga Akoranga · Learning Intentions
- Identify and apply the essential features of well-constructed graphs
- Self-assess graph quality against explicit criteria
- Choose the right graph type for a given data set
- Write a clear, evidence-based interpretation of a graph
Paearu Angitu · Success Criteria
- My graph has a descriptive title and fully labelled axes with units
- My scale is even and uses the full space available
- All data points are accurately plotted
- My written interpretation states the key trend and one specific piece of evidence
Hononga Marautanga · Curriculum Alignment
Curriculum alignment for this handout has not yet been verified against the live curriculum statements. A generated placeholder that stood here was removed on 2026-08-29 because it matched no real statement.
He Aha te Āhua Kauwhata? · Which Graph Type?
Before drawing, choose the right graph for your data.
Line Graph
Data that changes over time (continuous). Shows trends and rates of change.
e.g. temperature over a week, population over decades
Bar Graph
Comparing separate categories. Bars have gaps between them.
e.g. favourite subjects, population by iwi, transport types
Histogram
Showing frequency distribution of continuous data. Bars touch.
e.g. test score ranges, commute time ranges, height groups
Pie Chart
Showing parts of a whole (proportions). All slices add to 100%.
e.g. land use breakdown, survey responses, budget allocation
Scatter Plot
Showing the relationship between two variables. Each point = one pair of values.
e.g. study time vs score, temperature vs sales
Dot Plot / Strip Graph
Showing individual data values with their distribution visible.
e.g. daily rainfall amounts, class test scores shown individually
My graph is about: Graph type I chose:
Why is this the best type for my data?
Rārangi Tūhuratanga · Quality Checklist
Use this checklist BEFORE submitting. Tick each item, then rate your overall confidence (1 = needs more work, 3 = excellent).
| Done? | Quality criterion | What to check | Rating (1–3) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Title | My title describes exactly what the graph shows (variable + context, not just "my graph") | ||
| Axis labels | Both axes are labelled with the variable name and units (e.g. "Temperature (°C)", not just "Temperature") | ||
| Scale — even and full | Scale starts at an appropriate value, intervals are equal, and data fills at least 75% of the graph space | ||
| Accurate data points | Each data point or bar is plotted at the correct value — double-checked against the original table | ||
| Correct graph type | I have used the right graph type for the data — categorical/bar, continuous/line, distribution/histogram, etc. | ||
| Neatness and ruler | Straight lines are drawn with a ruler; labels are clear and readable; any key is provided for multiple lines/segments | ||
| Anomalies noted | Any unusual data points (outliers) are circled or noted — not ignored | ||
| Written interpretation | I have written 2–3 sentences that state the main trend AND back it up with at least one specific number from the graph |
My overall rating for this graph (circle one): 1 — Needs more work 2 — Getting there 3 — Strong work
One thing I would improve if I had more time:
Whakamārama Raraunga · Written Interpretation
A good interpretation answers three questions: What is the trend? What evidence supports it? What does it mean?
Write your interpretation of your graph here (2–3 sentences minimum):
Aronga Mātauranga Māori
In te ao Māori, communication of knowledge has always required clarity, precision, and context — whether in the carving of a poupou (carved figure) that encodes whakapapa, or in the structured recitation of oral history that places data in its relational context. A graph, like a whakapapa recitation, is only as useful as the clarity of its presentation and the depth of its interpretation.
When iwi scientists and environmental monitors present data to councils, Treaty tribunals, or communities, the quality of their graphs directly affects the quality of decisions made. Clear, accurate, well-interpreted graphs are a form of kaitiakitanga — they protect the integrity of the evidence on which decisions about te taiao are made.
Ngā Rauemi Tautoko · Support Materials
Resources already provided:
- This checklist — use it before submitting any graph in any subject
- Ruler (essential for bar graphs, line graphs, and axes)
- Coloured pens or pencils (for keys and multiple data series)
- Calculator (for checking scale intervals and percentage calculations)
Aronga Rerekē · Differentiated Pathways
Tīmata · Entry Level
Use the checklist items marked as essential (title, axis labels, accurately plotted points). Write 1–2 interpretation sentences. Focus on getting the basics right.
Paerewa · On Level
Complete the full checklist for your graph. Rate yourself honestly. Write a full 3-sentence interpretation with a specific data point as evidence.
Tūāpae · Extension
Complete all sections. Then peer-assess a classmate's graph using the same checklist — give specific written feedback on two things they did well and one thing to improve. Compare your self-assessment to their peer assessment: do they match?