Each student will need a Describe the Graph activity sheet and a graphing calculator or some other tool(s) to generate random numbers between 0 and 10 such as cards, number cubes, etc.
Students will each student generate 12 random numbers between 0 and 10 and write them in the order they are generated in the spaces provided on the activity sheet. One thing to be careful of is having duplicate domain values. If this happens just have the student generate an additional number for that spot.
Each student will then plot their unique points and connect them in order from left to right with line segments on the graph provided on their activity sheet. This is a second chance to catch any duplicate domain values as they graph. The level and knowledge of the students will guide your information here. Higher level students will need very little guidance while lower level or younger children will need a review or lesson in how the ordered pairs match up to the graph, such as the first value corresponds to the horizontal axis, etc.
Now students will need to decide what is represented by each axis of their graph and label them as such. I usually have an example to share with the class here for clarification, so this is a good place to use the Describe the Graph overhead.
Students are then ready to write a short story that describes what is being depicted in the graph. The activity sheet provides lines for students to write their story on. If they cannot fit their entire story in the space provided, I would encourage students to use their own sheet of paper do that both the graph and the story can be displayed at one time. I emphasize that someone reading their story must be able to recreate their graph based solely on their story. This doesn’t mean that every point has to be given but that someone could get to each point from the information given. Refer to the Overhead where the point (2, 4) is specifically stated but can be gleaned from the facts given. Allow students to work in groups of 2-3 only to discuss ideas for their stories. My experience is that students are very excited to share their stories and ideas so that by allowing them to work with a partner they can narrow down their selections based on feedback from their peers. Each student should create unique labels and therefore a unique story to go along with them.
Most students will not complete their story within a 45-minute class period so allow students to complete their stories outside class. Allow time the following day for students to clarify and ask questions regarding their graphs and story. Students may exchange papers to check each other’s work. It is also a good idea to allow students to present their graph and stories to the class. I do not make this mandatory because many students are very uncomfortable in this kind of setting but I do make it available for those students who would like to share. If you decide to let students present their work make sure you allow a good portion of the period because you will be amazed at the number of students who decide to present.
