This document provides guidance on interpreting graphs, tables, and figures in documents. It discusses paying attention to titles, axes, numbers of bars, legends, headers, columns, rows, matrices, labels, keys, and using visual elements together with the text for clarification and a better understanding of the information presented. The document advises when to use graphs, tables, and figures, such as for pre-reading to gain key ideas and supporting information or while reading to help clarify and enhance understanding beyond the text.

1. Debbie Lahav

2. Graphs
A graph is a visual
representation of the
relationship of data.
Pay attention to:
• The Title
• The Vertical Axis
• The Horizontal Axis
• The number of bars
• The key or legend
Task: List 4 facts about US
immigration.

3. Tables
A table is a set
of facts arranged
in rows and columns.
Pay attention to:
• The Title
• The Headers
• The Columns
• The Rows
Task:
What is the purpose of the table?
What kind of information does it provide?

4. Tables
Some tables are matrices.
Task:
What facts does the table provide about “p” and “b”?

5. Figures
Pay attention to:
• The title
• The labels
• The key or legend
Task:
What is a “place of articulation”?
How many places of articulation are there?
A figure is an
illustration that shows
information.

6. Remember!
Use the tables, graphs, and figures together with
the text!
Just from
looking in a
very general
way, what
message do
the tables,
graphs, and
figures give?

7. Graphs, tables, and figures
When?
 Pre-reading: For key ideas and supporting
information
 While reading: Visual data helps to clarify and help
you understand than the text.

8. Time
to