Types of Graphs Word Search, Scramble, and Crossword

Types of Graphs word search, scramble and crossword puzzle

I made this types of graphs puzzle set for my 3rd and 4th graders during our data unit. The kids could read a bar graph but had no idea when to use a line graph versus a pie chart versus a pictograph. So I put together a word search, a word scramble, and a crossword using words like bar graph, line graph, pie chart, circle graph, pictograph, tally chart, table, data, compare, change over time, parts of a whole, symbol, key, axis, and title. Nothing fancy — just puzzles to help the different graph types finally stick.

The PDF is four pages. Three puzzles plus one answer key page. The word search works well for quiet time after recess. The scramble gets them talking because they argue about which graph shows temperature changes over a week. The crossword I use for partners. I added a couple simple bar, line, and pie chart drawings but nothing too busy.

Works for 3rd through 5th grade. Print and go. Sometimes I have early finishers name which graph is best for showing percentages on the back. The kids actually ask for these now.