How To Use Glyphs For Data Analysis In Math And Engage Students

9/11/2022

When I was first introduced to using glyphs in math, I'll admit I was a little dubious. It seemed more like an art project than a math tool. But once I saw the benefits of using glyphs, I was sold!

How to use glyphs for data analysis in math and engage students

What are glyphs?

Glyphs are pictures with characteristics that represent different responses, which can be extremely helpful for visual learners. And because they're picture-based, they can also be a lot of fun!

There are all sorts of glyphs out there, from traditional sun and star shapes to more modern emoji-style pictures. Many glyphs are used in our environment to represent different places, objects, and rules.

How to use glyphs

For math, glyphs are great for comparing, contrasting and counting data based on the attributes in the image. Each attribute can be used to represent a different response. For example, a pumpkin has different shapes, eyes, mouths and number of teeth. The shape or style of these attributes can represent answers to questions such as what is your favorite food?

This is a fun way for students to learn how to interpret data and make math more engaging. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some extra Halloween fun!

Sometimes glyphs are created by selecting different parts or images and putting them together to create the picture. Here are some examples of this type of glyph.
Turkey Glyphs
Ipad Glyphs

Other times, glyphs are drawn based on the attributes that match the responses to the questions. Here is an example of this.

baby block glyph features what child was like as a baby

The purpose of glyphs

Regardless of the type of glyph chosen, the purpose is the same - to interpret data. They are great for learning how to interpret data from the attributes and how they correspond to the questions.

The purpose of the glyph can also be connected to various themes or subjects. A bookmark could be created to share things about a person such as hobbies, likes, dislikes, etc. An animal could be used to learn more about pets or animals that have been encountered, etc. A book might show what types of books or characters are favorites. You can create you own shapes and themes based on your needs and creativity.

.As you can see, glyphs can be used for many different purposes. Once they are created, post them on the board and let the data interpretation begin.

If you are interested in trying out some glyphs, here is a guide that might help. It is free for my subscribers. Click on the image to get your copy.

Get your free copy here

Glyphs make math fun and engaging for kids, which is a great way to get them interested in learning about data interpretation. The possibilities with glyphs are endless.

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