Read a graph from left to right. Going up means the amount grows. Flat means it stays the same. Going down means it shrinks. A steeper slope means it changes faster.
Worked example
The graph shows the amount of gas in a car over time. Which story matches the graph?
Answer:First it stays level, then it goes down.
Read the graph from left to right: where it goes up the amount grows, where it is flat nothing changes, where it goes down the amount shrinks. A steeper slope means faster change. The match is First it stays level, then it goes down.
For grown-ups: Describe and sketch graphs qualitatively. Below: three problems to try with the worked answers, and a free printable sheet. Children can practise the same skill as a game, with no sign-up and no ads.
CCSS 8.F.B.5
What this practises, for teachers
Practices describe and sketch graphs qualitatively (8.F.B.5). A printable sheet with its answer key, worked answers on the page, no accounts.
The graph shows the amount of gas in a car over time. Which story matches the graph?
Show the answer and how
Answer:First it stays level, then it goes up.
Read the graph from left to right: where it goes up the amount grows, where it is flat nothing changes, where it goes down the amount shrinks. A steeper slope means faster change. The match is First it stays level, then it goes up.
The graph shows the money in a jar over time. Which story matches the graph?
Show the answer and how
Answer:First it stays the same, then it grows, then it stays the same.
Read the graph from left to right: where it goes up the amount grows, where it is flat nothing changes, where it goes down the amount shrinks. A steeper slope means faster change. The match is First it stays the same, then it grows, then it stays the same.
The graph shows the water level in a tub over time. Which story matches the graph?
Show the answer and how
Answer:First it stays the same, then it falls, then it stays the same.
Read the graph from left to right: where it goes up the amount grows, where it is flat nothing changes, where it goes down the amount shrinks. A steeper slope means faster change. The match is First it stays the same, then it falls, then it stays the same.