What is data?
Data means information we collect and count, such as favourite fruits, colours or pets. First we collect, then classify (sort into groups), then arrange (put in order) so it is easy to read.
Using tally marks
A tally mark is a small line for each thing. We draw four lines, then one line across them to make a group of five. Counting in fives is quick and easy. After we count, we arrange the groups from the smallest to the biggest so the data is tidy.
Worked example
In a basket there are 3 apples, 2 oranges and 4 bananas. Which fruit has the most? Compare the numbers: 3, 2, 4. The largest is 4, so bananas have the most.
Key idea
Classify means put the same things in the same group, then count each group.
Remember
- Collect, then classify, then arrange.
- One tally line means 1.
- Count each group carefully.