Graphs

Graphs are a tricky part of the ELPAC. While the ELD is supposed to emphasize how students convey their answers over content knowledge, their inability to successfully read graphs could prevent them from accessing the information required for them to show their language skills. For this reason, I think it's important to give students a solid framework.

I love using SAP as a framework for listening and reading, and it works here, too. Looking at the title, for instance, can help students begin their answer during the speaking portion. It can also help with the writing portion, giving students a guideline of what to look for: title first (Subject), details in the graph (Action), then the overall purpose of the graph (Point).

Here is a Modified SAP for Graphs:

Subject: What is the graph about?

This graph is about...

The graph focuses on...

The topic of this graph is...

Action: What different things does the graph show? How do they relate?

In the graph, there is a large...

One key detail from the graph is...

The graph describes... by...

Point: What is the author trying to convey? What is the main takeaway?

The author's main point is...

The purpose of this passage is to...

The author wants the reader to understand that...

Pew Research Center (Link) — Excellent source. Charts are free to use, clearly titled, and cover topics students can relate to like technology, social media, and teens. The main thing to watch is that some charts are complex or politically sensitive, so previewing is important. Their "Short Reads" section tends to have the most accessible, single-topic charts.

Statista (Link) — Very clean graphs, but many require an account for full access. Worth a look but may hit a paywall.

Our World in Data (Link) — Possibly your best overall source. Completely free, no account needed, beautifully designed charts on science, health, population, and global trends. Topics tend to be engaging and politically neutral — ideal for classroom use.

The New York Times Learning Network (Link) — Occasionally publishes graph-based activities, though some content requires a subscription.

Census.gov (Link) / CDC (Link) — Official government data with clean, simple charts. Less visually engaging but very accessible and politically neutral.