How to explain use bar graphs to solve problems in interpreting data to your child. Example question
31 October 2026
Bar graphs are a simple way to show information so children can compare amounts at a glance. They help your child answer questions like 'who picked the most apples?' or 'how many more did one person pick than another?'.
Below is a clear example of using a bar graph to solve a problem, with each step broken down for your child.
Example question
A bar graph shows the number of apples picked by four children.
- Sam picked 6 apples.
- Lily picked 9 apples.
- Max picked 4 apples.
- Ava picked 7 apples.
How many more apples did Lily pick than Max?
Step 1: Look at the bar for Lily. It shows 9 apples.
Step 2: Look at the bar for Max. It shows 4 apples.
Step 3: Subtract the number of apples Max picked from the number Lily picked.
9 - 4 = 5
Answer: Lily picked 5 more apples than Max.
Key insight: Once your child understands how to read each bar and compare the numbers, they can solve many similar problems with confidence.
They are now ready to practise using bar graphs to solve problems just like this one, building skills for interpreting data in everyday situations.
