Learning Intentions

You will:

  • Interpret scientific data by graphing real population estimates over time

  • Identify trends, turning points, and unusual changes in population data

  • Use visual tools (like graphs) to support evidence-based conclusions

  • Communicate what population data reveals about environmental change and recovery

Cuttlefish Population Estimates (1999–2024)

Year Estimated Population
1999168,497
2000167,584
2001172,544
2002160,000
2003150,000
2004140,000
2005124,807
2006120,000
2007100,000
200875,173
2009123,105
2010104,805
201138,393
201218,531
201313,492
201457,317
2015130,771
2016177,091
2017127,992
2020247,146
2021107,847
202481,420

Cuttlefish Population Interpretation

Tap an answer, then tap the matching question. Or drag and drop if you're on desktop.

Answer Bank

13,492
No
Boom and Bust
2020
Gradual recovery
1. What was the lowest recorded cuttlefish population between 1999 and 2024?
[ Drop here ]
2. Were population surveys completed every year from 1999 to 2024?
[ Drop here ]
3. What phrase best describes a cycle where population numbers rise and fall dramatically?
[ Drop here ]
4. In which year did the cuttlefish population reach its highest estimate?
[ Drop here ]
5. How would you describe the population trend from the lowest point in 2013 to the peak in 2020?
[ Drop here ]

GRAPHING ACTIVITY

Understanding big sets of numbers can be tricky — but putting data into a graph helps us see patterns, changes and trends more clearly.

In this activity, you’ll turn population estimates into a visual line graph so you can better understand what happened to the Giant Australian Cuttlefish over time.

By the end, you’ll be able to spot turning points, identify key events like population crashes or recoveries, and explain what the data reveals about this important marine species.

Instructions: Create a line graph showing how the estimated population of Giant Australian Cuttlefish has changed.

You can do this:

  • In your workbook using graph paper

  • On your device using a spreadsheet (e.g. Google Sheets, Excel, or Numbers)

  • Or with an online graphing tool such as chartgo.com or meta-chart.com

    Tips:

  • Use these guidelines for your graph: X-axis = Year (from 1999 to 2024) Y-axis = Estimated Population

  • Label both axes clearly Use a dot or line for each data point

  • Make high and low points easy to see.

Self-Check: Does My Graph Show...?

  • The x-axis includes the years that have population data
  • The y-axis is labelled with population numbers
  • Each data point is marked or plotted correctly
  • My graph shows the lowest point in 2013
  • My graph shows the peak population in 2020
  • I used a line or dots to show the trend clearly
  • The graph has a title
  • The graph helps me see the changes over time

Bonus: Can I use my graph to explain what happened to the cuttlefish population over time?