Activity 17 - Graphing the impact of the Mental Deficiency Act

Aim

To create graphic representation of data and develop analytical skills.

Curriculum area(s) and stage

• Mathematics KS3-5
• ICT KS3-5 graphic representation
• KS5 Statistics and Psychology

Suitable for adults with learning disabilities?

No

Learning outcome(s)

• To be able to make graphs from a data set.
• To be able to identify trends and reflect on what these mean.

Time required

40-60 minutes

Resources

• Activity 17/Resource 1 - Excel spreadsheet Number Classified 'Mental Defectives' 1920-1946, 1973 and 1982

Activity

1. Construct a graph that captures the numbers of people certified in Local Authority institutions between 1920 and 1982. What does it show? And how might you explain the gaps in data?
2. Now add the numbers of people certified in Poor Law workhouses during this time period to your graph.
3. Construct a pie chart for different forms of certification in the years 1921, 1929 and 1938.
4. Reflect on what the data and the activities (1), (2) and (3) above tell you about the implementation of the Mental Deficiency Act.

Ideas for follow up

Calculate those ascertained who have voluntary rather than statutory control by deducting columns. Column 1 minus (-) G and H. Decide the best way to represent data and why.

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