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Summaries · Grade 5 Maths › Mode and data handling
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Mode and data handling

The mode: the value that occurs most often. Collecting, organising and showing data in bar graphs, pictographs and pie charts. Read one part at a time and tap “I know this”. Then test yourself in the quiz.

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The mode

The mode is the value that occurs most often.

  1. Order the data from smallest to largest.
  2. Count how many times each value occurs (tally marks help).
  3. The value that occurs most often is the mode.
DataMode
3, 5, 5, 7, 105
2, 3, 3, 5, 53 and 5 (two modes)
1, 2, 4, 6no mode: every value occurs only once

The mode can also be a word: if most learners choose red as their favourite colour, red is the mode.

Meerkat tip

First order the data from smallest to largest. Then values that are the same sit next to each other, and the mode is easy to spot.

Tap when you could tell someone without looking.

The data cycle

  1. Ask a question.
  2. Collect data (questionnaire, tally marks).
  3. Organise it in a table.
  4. Represent it in a graph.
  5. Read and discuss the results.
Tap when you could tell someone without looking.

Graphs

0246810AppleBananaPearGrape
The tallest bar is the most popular
  • Bar graph: bars of equal width with gaps; read the height on the scale.
  • Pictograph: pictures; the key says what one picture is worth.
  • Pie chart: slices of a circle; the whole circle is the whole group. Half the circle = half of the group; a quarter of the circle = a quarter of the group.

Read the graph: find the top of the bar and read across to the scale. Banana = 9 and Pear = 3, so 9 − 3 = 6 more learners chose banana. Altogether: 6 + 9 + 3 + 5 = 23 learners.

Meerkat tip

Give every graph a title and label both axes.

Tap when you could tell someone without looking.

Conclusions and predictions

  • Order the data from the smallest to the biggest group.
  • The mode is the value that occurs most often.
  • Write a short conclusion: “Most learners come to school by bus.” Then make a prediction: “Next year the school will need more buses.”
Tap when you could tell someone without looking.

Remember this and test yourself

Remember this: your summary
  • Mode = the value that occurs most often.
  • Ask, collect, organise, represent, read.
  • Order the data first.
  • Tally marks: four lines and the fifth across.
  • There can be two modes, or no mode.
  • Bar graph: read the height on the scale.

Write these points in your book. Read them again the night before the test.

Memory trick

MOde = MOst: the most popular value.

Flash cards · Tap to turn over

Important words

First say the answer yourself, then turn the card over.

Now the real quiz!

The quiz has many more questions on this topic. Every question shows straight away whether you are right and explains why.

Take the quiz: Mode and data handling
Practise it step by step: Extra Maths ClassAll Grade 5 Maths summaries
For parents
  • Let your child work the examples on paper and explain them to you.
  • The ticks (“I know this”) are saved on this device only. We never ask for names or emails.

Follows CAPS for Grade 5 Mathematics. Always check your teacher’s notes and textbook too.

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