Exploring and Interpreting data with Penguins of Palmer activity from Data to the Rescue

In this activity, youth will sharpen their graphing and analytical skills by using software to explore historical data about penguins. Through line graphs, they will investigate connections between penguins, sea ice, and climate change, enhancing their ability to visualize and interpret data. Additionally, they will develop computational thinking and technical skills by leveraging computer tools to aid their exploration. 

What We Know

Graphing and communicating data are fundamental data literacy skills that enable youth to visually represent information, making it easier to identify patterns, trends, and relationships within datasets. These skills empower them to make informed decisions on a wide range of topics, from everyday situations to pursuing careers in science, business, and beyond. 

As you watch the video below: 

• Notice how the youth are using CODAP and the Two Penguins’ Guide to Graphing to help analyze and make sense of the data. 

What We Learned

Now that you’ve watched the video, reflect on what you saw. 

• What did you notice about how the youth were using the data to draw their conclusions? 

• What data literacy skills were youth using in this video? 

• How can you integrate these facilitation strategies in your program? 

Building Data Literacy Skills

Youth will develop skills in visualizing and interpreting data, while also applying computational thinking and technical expertise to work with larger datasets using computer tools. Analyzing data involves making sense of information, whether it’s presented in a table, graph, or map. One effective way to interpret data is by plotting it on a graph, which helps uncover patterns, trends, and insights. 

Big Idea

By manipulating data, youth learn how to interpret and make-meaning from the information. CODAP is a free online tool that helps youth analyze and represent data in visual form (graphs). Youth also gain skills in working with computers while developing data literacy skills. These skills are important in more than just STEM careers as all career fields look to data to make decisions and interpret trends in business, education, or the environment.  

Find the full Data to the Rescue Curriculum, including an at-home version for individual learners and a club version

https://polar-ice.org/polar-explorer-adventures/

Developed in collaboration with Rutgers University (4-H) and Rutger University’s Center for Ocean Observing Leadership (RU COOL).