Group Activity Cards

Use groups of 2. Materials: Statistical abstract, an almanac, or the Internet, notebook paper, poster board, large outline map of the United States, colored markers or pencils, glue or paste

Where do People Live?

Use a statistical abstract, an almanac, or the Internet to collect the most recent data on the population density (population per square mile of land) for each state in the U.S. Divide your poster board as shown.

In Area 1 create a table displaying the population density for each state. In Area 2 make a line plot of the data using the state abbreviation instead of ×'s. Then choose 4 colored markers or pencils, ranging from light to dark to correspond with population density ranges from least to greatest. Color each state on a United States map according to its category. Glue or paste this map onto your poster board in Area 3. Provide a legend for your map, explaining what each color means.

Which of the three representations of the data most quickly allows you to answer the question, "Where do people live?" Compare your line plot and map with those of other groups. Discuss the differences between your graphs.