Mini-Lesson

Using Statistics

Mini-Lesson: Grades 4-6

Objective: Students will discuss the use of statistics in news stories.

1. Have students give examples of statistics used in the timeforkids.com article The Road Less Traveled.

2. Ask: Why does the reporter use these statistics? Would the article have had the same impact if statistics weren't included? Explain.

3. Next, point out that the reporter uses real-life examples of how high gas prices are affecting Americans. Have students give examples from the article. Ask: Why do you think the reporter tells the reader about how real-life people are affected by high gas prices?

Extend Learning: Have students complete this worksheet from the timeforkids.com Teaching Resources archive: How the U.S. Uses Oil.