Max Maths, Year 5, Learn together, Changing the scale on the vertical axis

In the Max Maths Year 5 curriculum, students learn the importance of scale in graphing data, specifically focusing on the vertical axis. The lesson illustrates how the same data can be represented differently by altering the scale on the vertical axis. Two graphs are presented, each depicting the tonnes of recycling collected each month from January to April. The key distinction lies in the scale used: the first graph increments by 100 tonnes and begins at 400 tonnes, while the second graph increases by 500 tonnes, starting from zero.

The difference in scale has a significant impact on the interpretation of the data. The first graph, with its finer scale, highlights greater variability in the amounts of recycling collected each month, potentially suggesting significant fluctuations that could prompt discussions or concerns. In contrast, the second graph's broader scale minimizes the appearance of variability, indicating steadier, less dramatic changes over time. Students are encouraged to consider scenarios where each graph might be more appropriate to use and to reflect on how the choice of scale can influence the perceived strength of an argument or the message being conveyed.