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Lesson details

Learning outcome

I can use data as evidence to explain a conclusion.

Key learning points

  1. Data can be used to tell a story.
  2. Evidence should support explanations.
  3. Digital tools can be used to present findings.

Keywords

  • Evidence - data that supports an explanation

  • Report - a clear explanation of findings

  • Explain - to make something clear using reasons and evidence

  • Conclusion - a decision reached using evidence

Common misconception

Opinions are the same as evidence.

Evidence uses data to support explanations. It is not always easy to find data that supports people's opinions.

Teacher tip

Model how evidence links to the conclusion before students create their own reports.

Licence

This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
(Collection 2).

Lesson video

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Prior knowledge starter quiz

4 Questions

Q1.
Why is it helpful to compare datasets?

to change the data
Correct answer: to find links between information
to remove information
to guess what happened

Q2.
Which dataset helped to explain why Ruby did not return to her enclosure?

the cafe menu
a visitor rumour
a weather report
Correct answer: the vet treatment report

Q3.
Which of these describes a reliable source?

a source that is exciting
Correct answer: a source that is checked and recorded carefully
a source that is shared quickly
a source that is colourful

Q4.
Evidence comes from __________.

guesses
Correct answer: data
rumours

4 Questions

Q1.
Match each word to its definition.

Correct Answer:evidence,data that supports an explanation

data that supports an explanation

Correct Answer:report,a clear explanation of findings

a clear explanation of findings

Correct Answer:explain,to make something clear using reasons and evidence

to make something clear using reasons and evidence

Correct Answer:conclusion,a decision reached using evidence

a decision reached using evidence

Q2.
Why is it important to include evidence in a report?

to make it longer
to impress the reader
to make it colourful
Correct answer: to support the explanation

Q3.
Which sentence is a strong conclusion?

I think Ruby wanted to explore.
Ruby is my favourite animal.
Correct answer: Ruby stayed overnight because the recorded data supports this.

Q4.
What should a clear report include?

only the conclusion
only opinions
Correct answer: the conclusion, evidence and explanation
pictures only

To help you plan your 3 digital literacy lesson on: Data as evidence, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...