Plot trends

Using data to plot and predicts trends

1. Using a spreadsheet program such as Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets, plot any trends in the data over time in an appropriately chosen graph format (eg line graph, pie chart). You should complete graphs for the following factors:

• age

• household composition

• family composition

• labour force status

• occupation

• other factors relevant to your community (eg Indigenous status, country of birth).

2. Discuss the following questions with your class or group:

• Based on your identification of trends, what do you predict for the future of your community in these areas?

• What can your community do to plan for this future and enhance liveability? For example, if the population under 15 is growing, your community may need to build more schools. If the number of new migrants is increasing, your community may need services to support people settling in. If the population of your community is stable, you may decide that improvements can be made in other areas, like improving environmental quality, social connectedness or community identity.