Question

students in a fifth - grade math class measured the lengths of 12 erasers. the line plot below shows the results.
eraser lengths
length (inches)
0 1/2 1
what is the total length, in inches, of all the erasers when they are lined up end to end?
a. 1 1/2 inches
b. 4 inches
c. 5 1/4 inches
d. 6 inches

Explanation:

Step1: Identify lengths and counts

From the line plot:

• Length $\frac{1}{4}$ inches: 6 erasers
• Length $\frac{1}{2}$ inches: 3 erasers
• Length $\frac{3}{4}$ inches: 3 erasers

Step2: Calculate total for each length

Total for $\frac{1}{4}$ in: $6 \times \frac{1}{4} = \frac{6}{4} = \frac{3}{2}$
Total for $\frac{1}{2}$ in: $3 \times \frac{1}{2} = \frac{3}{2}$
Total for $\frac{3}{4}$ in: $3 \times \frac{3}{4} = \frac{9}{4}$

Step3: Sum all total lengths

$$\frac{3}{2} + \frac{3}{2} + \frac{9}{4} = \frac{6}{4} + \frac{6}{4} + \frac{9}{4} = \frac{21}{4} = 5\frac{1}{4}$$

Answer:

C. 5 ¼ inches