Reading a table, and completing one

Reading a table means matching a number to both of its headings. Your child uses the row and column together to identify what an entry counts before choosing any calculation. This page develops the MOE Primary 4 outcomes on completing a table from given data and reading and interpreting tables. Some answers can be read directly; others need a total, a difference or a missing entry worked out from the information supplied.

• Use the row heading and column heading together to describe the group represented by one cell, including any unit printed in the table.
• Complete an empty cell from a stated total or relationship, separating entries for individual groups from entries that already represent totals.
• Compare the requested categories by subtracting their values, or combine the appropriate entries when the question asks for a total.
• Distinguish an empty cell from a printed zero: a blank may be information to find, while zero states that the category has none.
• Carry a result from one part of a question into the next only after identifying what that result counts.

After finding a missing entry in a row of separate categories, your child can add it to the other entries in that row. The result must equal the stated row total; if a column total is also supplied, the completed cell must fit that total as well.

Basic questions read a displayed total, compare an increase or recover a missing table cell. Intermediate questions read down columns, select rows meeting a limit or use equal totals to find a missing entry. Challenge questions use the value of notes in two money boxes to recover counts, or combine spending and savings information to recover a salary. Ask your child to distinguish the number of notes from their dollar value, and to identify which table entries belong in each calculation. A useful first working line names the missing amount being found; the next line can then use that amount without changing its meaning. If your child gets stuck, review the written solution after an attempt and follow how the entries are used. The free books-borrowed card adds the readings for two named days, giving your child a direct example of selecting and combining the relevant entries. Its multiple-choice Intermediate questions ask which statement about a table of snacks sold or of club members is true, comparing entries across rows and columns.

Why does my child choose the right number but answer the wrong table question? Ask your child to say both headings aloud with the number. A value may refer to one day and one activity, while the question asks about all days or a different activity. Naming the group first makes it easier to decide whether to read, add or subtract.

What does a two-way table show in Primary 4 maths? It organises information by two features at once, such as an activity and a group of children. Each cell belongs to one row category and one column category. Your child reads their intersection, then uses any row or column totals as further information about those categories.

Should my child add every number in the table? Only entries that belong to the requested total should be added. A total printed beside a row already includes that row's entries, so adding it again counts them twice. Before calculating, ask your child to identify which entries cover the group in the question exactly once.