What role do graphics (charts, graphs, maps) play in the SOL Reading items?

• A. They provide data to interpret and answer questions about trends, comparisons, or conclusions drawn from the text or visuals.
• B. They are decorative and not used for questions.
• C. They replace the need to read the text.
• D. They only appear in math sections.

Answer: (A)

Graphics in SOL Reading items present data you interpret to answer questions about trends, comparisons, or conclusions connected to the text or visuals. They serve as tools to practice pulling evidence from what you read and from what the graphic shows, then linking that information to the passage.

When you encounter a chart, graph, or map, look closely at what it displays: the numbers, labels, and how the information changes or differs. Then think about how that data relates to the writing—what statements in the text align with the graphic, what the trends suggest, or what conclusions you can draw from both together. The correct understanding is that the graphic provides data that you use to interpret and answer questions about the information presented.

Graphics aren’t decorative, aren’t a replacement for reading the text, and aren’t limited to math sections. They appear in Reading items to complement the passages and help you see relationships and evidence more clearly.