Well done! The goal of this exercise was to practice reading and interpreting graphs. For more information about crime, see the PEW Foundation report "Five facts about crime in the US."
Not all graphs use percentages or raw counts. Practice reading graphs carefully – including titles, notes and labels – to be sure you really understand what the graph says.
Think about if you understand the main argument the graph makes. Is it persuasive? Do you have questions? Also consider why the article has been written and why you are reading it.
Questions you should always ask when looking at data or media:
- What is the content? What is the photo, statistic, chart or infographic about?
- What is visual rhetoric/formal analysis? What is the form or format of the claim? Is it a photo, a chart, a statement, a video, a news report?
- What is context, i.e., the historical, ethical, political, cultural, environmental, or circumstantial settings or conditions” that influence and complicate the meaning and potential impact of the content? (AACU VALUE Critical Thinking Rubric)
- What is the source or authority for the content claim (e.g., scientific research, political or legal representative, journalist, celebrity, friend or other network tie?) This will usually be connected to #2 and #3.
- Are there ethical issues framing the content, visual rhetoric, context or authority of the claim? Consider the stakeholders in the object: what is the relationship between the author and the reader? Who is trying to convince whom? What are they trying to do or say? Are their implications or consequences for any other person or groups from making the content claim?