TeachersFirst US Census Resources
This collection of reviewed resources from TeachersFirst is selected to help teachers and students learn about the United States census and to plan related projects and classroom activities for both math and social studies classes at all levels. The census gives us a new lens to view geography, economics, history, current events, pop culture, and-- of course-- math! Whether you spend one class or an entire unit on the census, the ideas included within the "In the Classroom" portion of reviews will launch discussions and meaningful projects for student-centered learning.
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Everyone Counts Singalong - U.S. Census Bureau
Grades
K to 3
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Introduce the vocabulary term, census, to young students using this catchy video from the Census Bureau. The video is just over one minute and includes a repeating chorus that will...more
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Introduce the vocabulary term, census, to young students using this catchy video from the Census Bureau. The video is just over one minute and includes a repeating chorus that will catch your students' interest.
In the Classroom
Include this video when teaching students about gathering and sharing data to help them understand a census. Then, expand students' knowledge by conducting a census of your class. First, use Pear Deck, reviewed here, to build an interactive lesson to teach students about gathering and sharing data that includes this video as an introduction and includes questions to gather data on your class, such as how many boys and girls are in your class, how many students have siblings, etc. Next, use the Data Gif Maker, reviewed here, to quickly build graphs representing the data you collect in different formats.You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
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How This Teacher Brings Census Data to Life in the Classroom - Wendy McMahon
Grades
6 to 9
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Utilizing the census to teach statistics using real-world information and data is the focus of the conversation in this article shared by EdSurge. Applying real-world data, such as...more
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Utilizing the census to teach statistics using real-world information and data is the focus of the conversation in this article shared by EdSurge. Applying real-world data, such as census data, in the lessons helps students develop critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of their communities. In addition, this article provides various tools and resources for accessing and analyzing census data, including online databases and mapping software.
tag(s): census (12), data (211), statistics (128)
In the Classroom
Use the ideas shared in this article to create an interdisciplinary lesson to teach math, social studies, and writing objectives. For example, in this article, students work in groups to explore how many people in different states speak a language other than English at home. Take advantage of technology tools to engage and enhance this activity. For example, have students collect data using Microsoft Forms or Google Forms, then create and share charts and graphs using ChartGizmo, reviewed here. Use Google My Maps, reviewed here, to create an interactive map that includes all information created and shared by students.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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What is a Statistical Question? - United States Census Bureau
Grades
4 to 8
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What is a Statistical Question is a standards-based teacher's guide that provides lessons to teach students how to create and identify statistical questions. During the activity, students...more
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What is a Statistical Question is a standards-based teacher's guide that provides lessons to teach students how to create and identify statistical questions. During the activity, students determine whether the questions are statistical and then use the provided Radio Set Ownership Map and the United States Map to explore statistical questions and their features. During the final portion of the lesson, students write statistical questions based on data learned in the previous activity.
tag(s): census (12), data (211), statistics (128)
In the Classroom
Take advantage of this free lesson plan and the included ideas to introduce and reinforce the concept of statistical questions to your students. Integrate statistical questions with your lessons using Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets spreadsheets to visualize and analyze data. Ask students to share their data using Livegap Charts, reviewed here to view the information in many different formats, including line graphs, bar charts, infographics, and much more. Extend learning by asking students to become statisticians by creating questions, gathering data, and sharing their analyses with peers. Use Microsoft Forms or Google Forms to have students collect data to begin their investigation.
This resource requires PDF reader software like Adobe Acrobat.
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Rich Blocks, Poor Blocks - RichBlocksPoorBlocks
Grades
7 to 12
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Use this tool to find the median household income of the US by each Census tract. Search by city or state. Or click the "little orange man" and drag him ...more
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Use this tool to find the median household income of the US by each Census tract. Search by city or state. Or click the "little orange man" and drag him to the location you want to view on the US map. You will be taken to "Street View" (see the street up close) to view the income for that exact block. Find the median income by color blocks.
In the Classroom
Propose reasons for the differences in median income in a particular area or state. Research industry, agriculture, level of education, and other factors to determine the reasons. Investigate at the nearby ports and natural resources. Why do certain parts of the country have higher incomes and/or costs of living? How is income connected to education level? Students can identify patterns that exist among the data. They can form hypotheses about why. Create a campaign to bridge the wage gap by suggesting ideas to increase salaries in areas. Have students create a simple infographic sharing their findings using Snappa, reviewed here. Teachers of gifted will find "rich" possibilities for discussion from this site.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Payscale Cost of Living Calculator - Payscale, Inc.
Grades
7 to 12
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Try this excellent tool for teaching budgeting, comparing salaries and the cost of living across different areas, and money management. Enter two locations and a salary and occupation....more
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Try this excellent tool for teaching budgeting, comparing salaries and the cost of living across different areas, and money management. Enter two locations and a salary and occupation. The graphs show the differences in the costs of groceries, housing, utilities, transportation, and health care between the two places. A comparison shows how much salary you would need to maintain the present standard of living in the other location. You can also compare the cost of living with that of other major cities.
This site includes advertising.
This site includes advertising.
In the Classroom
Use this tool to determine how far a dollar goes in various locations. Allow students the opportunity to play with a standard salary and occupation to examine differences in the cost of living. Report on trends for cities in different areas of the country. Create a list locally of the various items that would be found in each category and the salary for that occupation where you live. Create a budget that allows for savings, vacations, or large purchases. Use the data for practice with graphing and creating infographics. In government classes, use this tool and census data to formulate hypotheses or draw conclusions about patterns of population movement and economic trends across various areas of the country, especially in relation to political trends and election data.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Facts for Features: Thanksgiving Day 2017 - U.S. Census Bureau
Grades
3 to 12
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The Census Bureau offers lots of Thanksgiving statistics, from the total weight of all the turkeys raised in the US to the total amount of food consumed on Thanksgiving. You ...more
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The Census Bureau offers lots of Thanksgiving statistics, from the total weight of all the turkeys raised in the US to the total amount of food consumed on Thanksgiving. You can plan a huge party with this one!
tag(s): holidays (284), thanksgiving (25)
In the Classroom
Choose a statistic your students can estimate then use this site to help develop estimation and number sense--all in a holiday spirit. Gobble, Gobble! Perhaps create an infographic using Piktochart AI Inforgrapic Generator, reviewed here to display your favorite data. An interesting question to ask: what other data would you like to learn from the U.S. census the next time they do one?Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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2020 Census - US Census Bureau
Grades
6 to 12
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The Decennial Census website from the U.S. Census Bureau provides information about the nationwide population count that takes place every ten years and the planning, research, and...more
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The Decennial Census website from the U.S. Census Bureau provides information about the nationwide population count that takes place every ten years and the planning, research, and testing that support future censuses. The site currently focuses on preparations for the 2030 Census, offering updates on research projects, operational planning, technology improvements, and efforts to ensure an accurate count of all residents. Teachers and students can explore how census data is collected, why it matters, and how it influences representation, funding, and community planning across the United States. The site is updated regularly as new information becomes available, providing a valuable resource for lessons on civics, government, geography, demographics, and data literacy.
tag(s): census (12), civics (129), demographics (14), population (53)
In the Classroom
First, it's important for students to know that the US Constitution requires a census, and second, that the information gathered is used in a variety of important ways that affect them directly. The first data posted looks at how shifts in population density will change the way various geographic areas of the country are represented in the US government. Consider reading the Director's blog for further analysis of how census data is being used on a local, state, and national level. Of course, the data are perfect for using in math and civics classes for teaching graph reading and creation, and for providing real-life information to use in statistical analysis. A civics or sociology class might download a copy of the census form and consider what the questions tell us about how families live in the 21st century. What questions might students add to a future census form that would reflect how things are changing for their generation?Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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100 People - 100 People Foundation and VIF
Grades
6 to 12
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This site takes the global population (there are 6.7 billion of us) and simplifies it to 100 People to help students understand what kind of people make up their community ...more
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This site takes the global population (there are 6.7 billion of us) and simplifies it to 100 People to help students understand what kind of people make up their community and the world beyond. On the first page of the website you will see a lesson plan video to view. There are 12 other videos for you to use.
There are two lesson plans for this site. The first one, "World Portrait" is where students survey and select 100 people to represent their community and the world's population. There are also suggestions for how a class might select one person. The plan is download-able and has ideas that include criteria for the people who are nominated, discussion topics and activities, questions for the community profile, a questionnaire for the people nominated, an image release form, just to name a few. Student results are to be captured in film, photography, music and text. The other lesson plan on this site is titled "100 People Under the Sun." In order to download this lesson you must register, it is free, but you will have to log in when viewing the plan. With this lesson "...students will develop key leadership skills to help raise their community's awareness of its energy use, as well as its motivation to advance sustainable approaches."
There are two lesson plans for this site. The first one, "World Portrait" is where students survey and select 100 people to represent their community and the world's population. There are also suggestions for how a class might select one person. The plan is download-able and has ideas that include criteria for the people who are nominated, discussion topics and activities, questions for the community profile, a questionnaire for the people nominated, an image release form, just to name a few. Student results are to be captured in film, photography, music and text. The other lesson plan on this site is titled "100 People Under the Sun." In order to download this lesson you must register, it is free, but you will have to log in when viewing the plan. With this lesson "...students will develop key leadership skills to help raise their community's awareness of its energy use, as well as its motivation to advance sustainable approaches."
tag(s): population (53), statistics (128)
In the Classroom
This project is the perfect opportunity to collaborate with others in your building! Math students could complete a school and community survey (which could tie in with 2010 U.S. census). Social Studies students could interpret data collected in the survey (also could be tied into the 2010 census) and extrapolate parameters for nominations. Language Arts students would finalize the nominations and develop the essays. Technology, yearbook, and art classes can draw the portraits or produce them digitally, create a video for submission to 100 People project, and your more advanced technology students can create a website for content display. WebNode, reviewed here, or a wiki would be great tools to use for the website! Not familiar with wikis? Check out the TeachersFirst's Wiki Walk-Through.Of course, you don't have to collaborate with others. This unit would work well in any world culture class at any level, or even in language arts when studying multicultural literature and settings. Here's another idea: Many of us have seen the video Did You Know? Predicting Future Statistics>. The beginning states "If you are one in a million in China there are 1,300 people just like you." But it also gives statistics like "During the course of this presentation 60 babies will be born in the U.S., 244 babies will be born in China, and 351 babies will be born in India..." You can use your and your student's ideas to come up with your own statistics. Something like how many people will be working and sleeping between the hours of midnight and 6:00 A.M. in the U.S., China, and India (or any other country you wish to include). Use this to lead to discussions of time zones and all sorts of other peripheral ideas and decisions students will have to think about.
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A Better Future - Let's Be Counted - Steven J. Logwood
Grades
2 to 12
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This engaging four-minute music video provides a creative introduction to the importance of the U.S. Census and civic participation. Featuring a catchy song, diverse imagery, and on-screen...more
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This engaging four-minute music video provides a creative introduction to the importance of the U.S. Census and civic participation. Featuring a catchy song, diverse imagery, and on-screen lyrics, the video highlights how census data helps communities receive funding and representation. Designed to appeal to a broad audience, the message emphasizes inclusion and encourages participation from all communities. The video is available in both English and Spanish, making it accessible for multilingual classrooms. Teachers can use it as a lesson hook, discussion starter, or introduction to a unit on population, demographics, government, or citizenship. As with all YouTube content, access may be restricted by school filtering settings.
In the Classroom
Share this video and song on your projector and screen, or whiteboard, as students come into the classroom. Use it as a lead-in to a discussion about the importance of the census. You can post some of the information from "Statistics - Census in Schools," reviewed here. From this same site you can go to "Fun Facts," that you can use in elementary, middle school, and high school classrooms. One last suggestion: Once you've completed your census unit, discussion, etc. You might want to have your class participate in the "100 People: A World Portrait" reviewed here. Don't forget about the possibility of using the census in math class to understand data and graphing, as well.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Statistics - Census in Schools - U.S. Census Bureau
Grades
K to 12
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Census in Schools is a free educational program from the U.S. Census Bureau that helps students understand the importance of the census and how population data is collected and used....more
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Census in Schools is a free educational program from the U.S. Census Bureau that helps students understand the importance of the census and how population data is collected and used. Designed for grades K-12, the site offers a wide variety of standards-aligned classroom resources, including lesson plans, activities, videos, maps, games, infographics, and printable materials. Resources can be browsed by grade level, subject area, and topic, making it easy for teachers to find relevant content for math, social studies, geography, and language arts instruction. The site also includes family activities, distance learning resources, and engaging tools that help students explore demographics, communities, and data literacy through real-world applications.
tag(s): census (12), statistics (128)
In the Classroom
Have students complete a Census in Schools lesson appropriate for their grade level, then compare their class results with those of another grade level in the school. Students can create charts or graphs to analyze similarities and differences between the groups. Pair older and younger students for a buddy activity. Older students can help younger learners read census-themed stories, complete worksheets, and discuss why population data is important to communities. After completing a census unit, have students create a "100 People in Our Community" project. Using census statistics, students can model what 100 people in their community might look like by representing characteristics such as age, language, education, or ethnicity through graphs, infographics, or other visual displays.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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State Facts for Students - US Census Bureau
Grades
3 to 6
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This practical research tool provides useful, kid-friendly information about each of the fifty states. Students can learn about the census, discover state-related facts, and test their...more
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This practical research tool provides useful, kid-friendly information about each of the fifty states. Students can learn about the census, discover state-related facts, and test their knowledge with some challenging quiz questions. An interactive map serves as an easy navigational tool to reveal state-by-state information including total population, urban and rural residences, school enrollment, and languages spoken.
tag(s): states (128)
In the Classroom
Use this site during state research. Compare various states and have cooperative learning groups create two circle Venn Diagrams comparing two specific states using a site such as Interactive Two Circle Venn Diagram (reviewed here).Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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CensusScope
Grades
6 to 12
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Created by a university consortium, this site offers a wealth of graphs, charts, and data that students can use to analyze America's demographics. There are a number of prefabricated...more
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Created by a university consortium, this site offers a wealth of graphs, charts, and data that students can use to analyze America's demographics. There are a number of prefabricated analyses available, and there is also enough data to create exercises or activities that let students explore on their own. There are a number of possibilities for social studies, math, or statistics in this one.
tag(s): census (12), demographics (14), population (53)
In the Classroom
Share these visuals on your projector or interactive whiteboard. Have students investigate one area of this data and contribute to a class wiki. Not comfortable with wikis? Have no wiki worries - check out the TeachersFirst's Wiki Walk-Through.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Home Schooling in the United States - US Census Department
Grades
K to 12
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The popularity of homeschooling is on the rise, and teachers need to understand why. This report (dated August 2001) from the Census Department takes a look at home schooling - ...more
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The popularity of homeschooling is on the rise, and teachers need to understand why. This report (dated August 2001) from the Census Department takes a look at home schooling - how many families are doing it, where they are, and what their motivations and successes may be.
tag(s): census (12), statistics (128)
In the Classroom
This report should be interesting reading for anyone working in a public or independent school.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Statistical Abstract of the United States - US Government
Grades
6 to 12
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The government's concise presentation of statistical information on hundreds of aspects of life in the United States. Although this site only goes up to 2010 (at the time of this ...more
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The government's concise presentation of statistical information on hundreds of aspects of life in the United States. Although this site only goes up to 2010 (at the time of this review), it could be very useful in comparing historical data. Make sure to reference back for new stats after the 2020 census is done!
tag(s): demographics (14), population (53), statistics (128)
In the Classroom
Use this site as a point of reference for any and all statistical information about the US population. Teachers can use this to find voter and state information, which would be useful in a discussion about apportion of state delegates in the House of Representatives.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Census Quick Facts - United States Census Bureau
Grades
4 to 12
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The U.S. Census Bureau's QuickFacts website provides current population, demographic, housing, economic, and education data for states, counties, cities, towns, and other geographic...more
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The U.S. Census Bureau's QuickFacts website provides current population, demographic, housing, economic, and education data for states, counties, cities, towns, and other geographic areas across the United States. Users can quickly access information such as population totals, age distribution, racial and ethnic composition, income levels, housing statistics, educational attainment, and business data. The site allows easy comparison of multiple locations and presents data in a clear, easy-to-read format that is useful for research projects, geography lessons, civics activities, and data analysis. Unlike older versions of the site, the information is updated regularly using the most recent Census and American Community Survey data.
tag(s): census (12), population (53)
In the Classroom
Use this site as the starting point for individual or group projects. Have pairs of students create multimedia presentations about specific states or counties. Have students use a mapping tool such as as Zeemaps, reviewed here, to create a map of the locations they have researched (with audio stories and pictures included)!Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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