Integrating Essential Skills into Training - National Adult Literacy ...

Background and Context
Specific Example: Data Tables
How can we use tables to sort
and obtain information?
HOW TO DELIVER A LESSON ON TABLES
What is the workplace task? Using tables, schedules and production plans
What kind of tables do we use
at work?
What is a table?
Why do we use tables?
Application Exercises
Applying concepts to another
set of information
A closer look at table structure
Brainstorm a list with trainees (e.g.) inventory control sheets, hours
worked logs, production plans, class lists, teaching timetables,
students assessment tables, holiday schedules, calendars, hours of
operation schedules, shift rotation schedules, equipment sign out
lists, interest rate tables, loan repayment schedules, etc.
Ask trainees to develop a definition based on the examples of tables
they listed above. For example:
a table is a group of lists
a table has headings (across the top, down the side or both)
columns in a table can be read as a series of vertical lists
rows in a table can be read as a series of horizontal lists
lists in a table can be read both vertically and horizontally
a table has a title that says what the table is about
a table can have words, numbers or pictures
Brainstorm some ideas with trainees. For example:
to present information so it can be read quickly
to put information into categories
to show how types of information interact with each other
to make it easy to write information (few words are needed)
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Refer trainees to the sewing machine document they used in the
morning interviewing exercise.
Ask trainees to complete the Equipment Specifications Table
Exercise in pairs. (This exercise can be completed with tool or
equipment lists of any kind as well as materials lists, product lists,
etc). This is a good exercise to get trainees to understand product
specifications and to learn about the tools, equipment and
materials used in their studies. This exercise also shows how
categories in a table are dependent on what kinds of information
readers need and what kinds of information are available.
Debrief as a group.
Repeat the exercise using information from product ads (televisions
and vehicles). This exercise can be done using supplier catalogues,
product brochures, actual products (market research), etc.
Ask trainees to look at the stock market and mortgage rate tables.
Discuss how the information is arranged, which other columns could
be the lead column and why, what changes to the order would have
to be made. Using these kinds of tables allows for lessons on the
stock market and market listing, and mortgages and home purchses.