Looking for a way to help your students confidently conduct their own statistical investigations? These clear and student-friendly Steps of a Statistical Investigation Posters are the perfect tool to introduce and reinforce the essential steps involved in collecting, analysing and presenting data. Designed to support inquiry-based learning, each poster focuses on one of the four key stages of a statistical investigation.

Each step includes a guiding question and targeted prompts to spark classroom conversation and independent thinking. Whether used during a whole-class data project or small group inquiry, these posters help to scaffold the process of planning, gathering, interpreting and communicating data.

The posters are visually engaging and designed to make abstract processes feel achievable. With flexible sizing options and clear language, they’re a perfect fit for any maths or inquiry-focused classroom.

Key Learning Outcomes

• ✅ Identify and understand the four key stages of a statistical investigation
• ✅ Use prompting questions to guide independent or collaborative inquiry
• ✅ Support the planning, collection, analysis and communication of data
• ✅ Develop critical thinking by reflecting on the investigation process

What’s Included

4 full-colour posters, each representing a stage of the investigation

Clear guiding questions for each step

Helpful prompts to scaffold student thinking

Options to print at A3, A4 or smaller sizes for flexibility

Materials Needed

Printer and coloured ink (for visual impact)

Laminator (optional for durability)

Ring clips or magnets for display and handling

Whiteboard or bulletin board space for classroom reference

How to Use

1. Display the posters during your initial lesson to introduce each stage of a statistical investigation.
2. Refer back to the posters as anchor charts throughout your data collection or graphing unit.
3. Provide students with smaller versions for their maths folders or inquiry journals.
4. Use them to create a shared classroom language around data investigation processes.

Ideas for Classroom Use

• 💡 Link the poster prompts to a real-world class project, such as a survey of student interests or a science experiment
• 💡 Use during group investigations to help students reflect on which step they’re currently working through
• 💡 Post around the classroom for a gallery walk during the early planning phase of an inquiry

Top Teacher Tips

• 💛 Laminate the posters and attach them to a flip ring for a portable reference that can be passed between groups
• 💛 Pair with our graphing and data display templates to complete a full cycle of statistical learning
• 💛 Use the guiding questions as exit tickets or discussion starters at the end of each lesson

These posters offer a structured yet flexible framework to guide your students through the complete process of a statistical investigation. Whether you’re working on simple surveys or more advanced data collection projects, this visual support will boost student confidence and build essential inquiry and numeracy skills.