Show lengths on a line plot
Line plots let your child see at a glance what a set of measurements is saying: which value came up most and how spread out the results are. They bring measuring, number lines, and data together. In 3rd grade, line plots use measurements to the nearest half and quarter inch, and in 4th and 5th grade children solve problems with line plots that show fractions. Science class uses the same skill.
In this video, your child will learn to show measurements on a line plot.
The lesson stops at each question for your child's answer.
Three problems, each a little harder
Each problem is worked step by step. Your child will solve the last one before Bobby shows how.
Example 1
Which length comes up most often?
Example 2
How many crayons were measured in all?
Your child's turn
How many ribbons were measured in all?
The three key steps
- 1Put an X above each length.
- 2Count the X's to see how many.
- 3Tallest stack: most often.
Mistakes to listen for
- Spacing the numbers unevenly, or leaving out a number nobody measured, such as skipping 8 when no object was 8 inches.
- Drawing the Xs in different sizes or spacing, so the stacks are hard to compare.
- Rounding inconsistently, recording a pencil a little over 5 inches as 6 inches instead of 5.
The lesson shows every step, so your child sees why it works. Read our parent's guide to measuring things and making a line plot →
Is your child ready to practice what they've learned?
Bobby's Math Club offers unlimited practice for free.
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More 2nd grade Measurement & Data, with questions your child answers along the way.
Questions parents ask
Does my child need an account to watch?
No. You can watch this on any device at any time. If your child would like to practice measuring things and making a line plot, and you'd like parent-friendly reports on your child's progress and growth, you can join Bobby's Math Club for unlimited free practice.
What happens when my child answers a question?
A right answer gets a cheer, and the lesson carries on. If your child isn't sure, they can tap "I don't know yet", and Bobby gives the answer and shows another example. Nothing is scored or stored.
Is this the same lesson that's on YouTube?
Yes. Here, the lesson stops at each question and waits for your child to answer. On YouTube, each question stays on screen for a few seconds, and then the lesson plays on.
Where can I learn more?
There's a short, kid-friendly lesson like this one for every Pre-K to 5th grade math skill, all in our video library. Our parent's guide to measuring things and making a line plot has more on where kids get stuck and how you can help at home. In the club, your child practices at just the right level, about five minutes a day, and you get parent-friendly reports as they grow. Learn more about how it works →
Practice measuring things and making a line plot
Questions at your child's level, about five minutes a day, on measuring things and making a line plot and whatever PK-5 skills they need to develop. Unlimited practice, free forever.
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