Graphing Dice: Insects and Bugs theme
Recommended Grade Level:
Type of Resource: PDF
Number of Pages: 4
Coordinating Activities
Insects and Bugs Graphing Dice
- 1 printable fold-up picture die
- 1 graph page with a column for each picture
Print in color. Cut out and fold the die, then tape it together. Laminate the graph to use with counters or a dry-erase marker.
Required Materials:
- Paper, Printer, Ink
- Scissors
- Tape
- Laminator (optional)
- Gems or counters
Standards for Data and Counting
This Insects and Bugs graphing activity supports early math standards connected to sorting, counting and graphing data.
Common Core State Standards: Mathematics
- CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.K.MD.B.3: Classify objects into given categories and count the number of objects in each category. Kids sort each roll into a column and count each column.
- CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.K.CC.B.5: Count to answer “how many?” questions. Kids count how many are in each column.
Texas Prekindergarten Guidelines and TEKS for Mathematics
- TEKS K.8A: Collect, sort and organize data into two or three categories. Kids sort each roll into the matching column.
- TEKS K.8B: Use data to create real-object and picture graphs. Kids build a picture graph one roll at a time.
- TEKS K.8C: Draw conclusions from real-object and picture graphs. Kids tell which column has the most and the fewest.
Virginia Mathematics Standards of Learning
- K.PS.1: Apply the data cycle to sort, organize and represent data in object and picture graphs. Kids graph their rolls and compare the columns.
Insects and Bugs Graphing Dice helps preschool and kindergarten kids collect, sort and graph data with a hands-on printable math activity.
Roll the die and watch the graph grow! Which of the bugs will win?
Kids roll the picture die, find the matching column on the graph and color a box or place a counter in that column. They keep rolling until one column reaches the top.
Talking about which column has the most, the fewest or the same builds early data skills and counting.
Keep the die and a laminated graph in a math center for a quick roll-and-graph game.
How to Use Insects and Bugs Graphing Dice
- Roll the picture die.
- Find the matching picture at the bottom of the graph.
- Color a box or place a counter in that column.
- Keep rolling until a column is full, then compare the columns.
Small Group: Give each child a graph and share one die. Take turns rolling and have everyone add to their graph.
Independent Practice: Set the die and graphs in a math center. Kids roll and graph on their own, then share which picture won.
Easy Ways to Differentiate This Graphing Activity
Every group of kids has a mix of counting, number recognition and fine motor skills. These simple changes keep the activity familiar while meeting each child where they are.
For Children Who Need More Support:
- Use counters to mark the boxes.
- Name the picture together after each roll.
- Stop after 10 rolls and count each column.
- Fill only the bottom few rows at first.
For On-Level Practice:
- Roll until one column is full.
- Count each column and write the number at the top.
- Tell which column has the most and the fewest.
- Play with a partner and compare graphs.
For an Extra Challenge:
- Tell how many more one column has than another.
- Write a sentence about the graph.
- Predict which column will win before rolling.
- Make a tally chart of the rolls.
For Speech, OT, ELL or Special Education Support:
- Model the number word and give plenty of wait time.
- Accept pointing, gestures, AAC or any communication method the child already uses.
- Use tongs or tweezers to place counters for added fine motor practice.
- Repeat the same small set of numbers across several sessions.
- Use the words most, fewest and same as kids talk about the graph.
Insects and Bugs Graphing Dice Is Perfect For:
- Preschool and pre-K
- Kindergarten
- ELL and multilingual learners
- Spring, insect and bug themes
- Math centers
- Morning tubs
- Small-group instruction
- Intervention
- Special education
- Speech, OT and early intervention sessions
- Homeschool preschool and kindergarten
- Substitute plans
