MathematicsClass 6Data Handling
Bar Graphs
Displaying data using bars of uniform width with heights proportional to respective values.
Class 6 · MathematicsCBSE & ICSE SOF IMO
Definition
A bar graph is a pictorial representation of data using rectangular bars of uniform width, where the lengths or heights of the bars are proportional to the values they represent. The bars can be drawn either horizontally or vertically along two axes. It is one of the most effective ways to compare different categories of data at a glance.
Worked examples
1
Drawing vertical bars of different heights to show the marks obtained by a student in five subjects.
2
Representing the population of four major cities using horizontal rectangular bars.
3
Comparing the monthly electricity consumption of a household using a bar chart with an appropriate scale.
Common mistakes
- • Using inconsistent spacing between the bars or varying the width of the bars incorrectly.
- • Choosing an inappropriate scale on the axis, which can make the differences between data values look disproportionate or misleading.