WDS: DataBytes Collection

DataBytes are quick, bite-sized classroom activities (designed to take 30 minutes or less) that encourage students to interpret and analyze data visualizations related to everyday scientific issues. The resources include several specific lessons focused on visualizations sourced from news media and scientific agency reports, as well as a general framework and DIY guide for teachers to create their own DataBytes activities.

Intended Audience & Use Case: Designed for middle school math and science teachers seeking quick warm-ups or introductory data literacy exercises. It acts as an easy “on-ramp” for incorporating data-centric discussions without requiring extensive class time.

DIY Discussion Framework

To implement these in class, review the official DataBytes Discussion Structure Guide (Google Doc).

Example Databytes Activities

• Lesson 1: Exploring Carbon Dioxide & Costs for Vehicles
  Teacher Guide (PDF) Student Slides
• Lesson 2: Climate Threats
  Teacher Guide (PDF) Student Slides
• Lesson 3: Rising Global Temperature
  Teacher Guide (PDF) Student Slides
• Lesson 4: Changes in Fish Habitat
  Teacher Guide (PDF) Student Slides
• Lesson 5: What’s Healthy
  Teacher Guide (PDF) Student Slides Interactive CODAP Dataset
• Lesson 6: Global Temperature Change Predictions
  Teacher Guide (PDF) Student Slides Interactive CODAP Dataset
• Lesson 7: Tracking Elephant Seals
  Teacher Guide (PDF) Student Slides Interactive CODAP Dataset

• Lesson 8: Examining Cereal Data
  Teacher Guide (PDF) Student Slides Interactive CODAP Dataset

  Associated Publications Interviews with teachers as they review DataBytes activities are described in: Wilkerson, M.H., Kim, J., Lee, H.S. et al. How Teachers Envision Using Data Visualization Discussion Tasks in Classroom Instruction. International Journal of Science and Mathematics Education, 23, 2653–2687 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10763-024-10521-y