1. Chapter 1, Section 3--Communicating with Graphs
Textbook pages 21-25
Chapter 1, Section 3--Communicating with Graphs

2. A GRAPH IS A VISUAL DISPLAY OF INFORMATION OR DATA.
Why do we use graphs?
Where else (besides in science) are graphs commonly used?
What are some different types of graphs you have seen or used?

3. There are 3 Graph types: Line Graph Bar Graph Circle Graph
Can you think of a situation in which a line graph would be the best type to use? When would you use a bar graph? A circle graph?

4. Line graph Used for showing trends or continuous change.
Plot the dependent variable on the vertical y-axis and the independent variable on the horizontal x-axis.
Examples:
Distance vs. Time
Height vs. Age
Temperature vs. Time

5. Bar graph
Used for showing information that was collected by counting; used for showing comparisons.
Examples:
Shoe sizes of the people in this room
Paper-towel absorbency for different brands
Number of cars sold at Smail Honda Village on the different days of the week

6. Circle graph
Used for showing how some fixed quantity is broken-down into parts or percentages.
Examples:
Homework you have each night by subject
How your allowance or paycheck is spent
Abundance of elements that make-up the human body

7. Some other important info about graphs:
Every graph must have an appropriate title—it should describe the data that is being displayed in the graph.
Label each axis with the quantity that is being shown as well as the units for that quantity (such as meters, or seconds)
Choose an appropriate scale for your axes that will accommodate the range of your data being plotted on the graph.
Make your graph BIG—it should fill at least half of the page.
Make your graph NEAT—always use a straight-edge to draw any straight lines.