Discontinuous variation: data handling and analysis
I can plot data on discontinuous variation on a bar chart and suggest possible causes for the variation.
Discontinuous variation: data handling and analysis
I can plot data on discontinuous variation on a bar chart and suggest possible causes for the variation.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Using a bar chart to display discontinuous data.
- Plotting data for discontinuous variation on a bar chart.
- Interpreting and describing a bar chart displaying data for discontinuous variation.
- Discontinuous variation usually has only a genetic cause and is not affected by environment or lifestyle.
Keywords
Discontinuous variation - Variation which is categorical (divided into particular categories).
Bar chart - A graph displaying categorical data plotted as columns of equal width that do not touch. The height of each column represents the tally or frequency for the category (how many times it was observed).
Genetics - Related to the genetic material (DNA) and genes that an individual has.
Common misconception
Using a line graph or histogram to plot discontinuous data. All features show variation due to environmental and lifestyle factors.
The lesson explores why a bar chart is the correct choice for plotting discontinuous data, and the idea that discontinuous variation usually has only a genetic cause.
To help you plan your year 8 science lesson on: Discontinuous variation: data handling and analysis, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 8 science lesson on: Discontinuous variation: data handling and analysis, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 3 science lessons from the Variation (differences within species) unit, dive into the full secondary science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
