Life expectancy at birth

Overview

Using Canadian statistics, this exercise introduces line graphs. Students learn to label and plot line graphs with data from the table 'Life expectancy at birth' on Statistics Canada's Web site. They also learn how to determine the differences in trends in life expectancy between males and females.

Contributors: Linda McCormick and Nadia Beckford, Education Communications, Dissemination Division, Statistics Canada.

Objectives

• To review table and graph terminology (title, unit of measure, legend, header, etc.).
• To create line graphs.
• To recognize and appreciate the differences in life expectancy between males and females.

Suggested grade level and subject areas

Elementary, Mathematics, Health

Outcomes

• Be able to define table terminology.
• Create a line graph on the life expectancy for males and females in Canada.

Vocabulary

Life expectancy: the life span expected for males and females.
Header: refers to column titles in tables.
Unit of measure: a standard quantity or amount, used as a basis for measuring (e.g., years of age).
Stubs: refers to row titles in tables.
Legend: used in graphs and charts to determine what a symbol or colour represents.

Materials

• 'Life expectancy at birth'
• Writing utensils
• Ruler
• Graph paper

Classroom instructions

This exercise introduces line graphs.

1. Review graph components (title, legend, units of measure, x- and y-axis, etc.)
2. As a class, prepare a line graph on life expectancy in Canada using data from the first column (Both sexes) on the table.
3. Determine units of measure for the x-axis and the y-axis. (Explain that the data are a time series—a measurement of the same variable at regular intervals.)
4. Using an overhead, show the class how to label and create a line graph. In other words, demonstrate how to plot data on a graph. Then ask a volunteer to plot the next value, etc.
5. Once students grasp the concept, ask them to create a line graph using male and female data.
6. After students have finished creating their graphs, have them summarize their graphs. Students will be able to visualize differences in life expectancy in males and females.

Evaluation

Students hand in their graphs and teachers evaluate neatness, legibility and comprehension.

Please e-mail comments or examples of how you used this exercise in your class.

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