Intro to Graphing

Why do we make graphs? Graphs and charts are great because they communicate information visually. They are also helpful in identifying certain trends.

Types of Graphs… Pie Chart Bar Graph Line Graph

Pie Charts Pie charts can be used to show percentages of a whole. Types of cars sold in 2001 Pie charts can be used to show percentages of a whole. They represent percentages at a set point in time. They do not show changes over time. 27% Diesel 65% Gasoline 8% Electric

Bar Graphs Bar Graphs are used when displaying discrete data. You can tell if your data is discrete if you can separate it into categories and if the order you list these categories does not matter. Examples of discrete data: brands, colors, names, gender, etc.

Line Graphs Line graphs are used when displaying continuous data. Data is continuous if it comprised of numbers and if the order of the numbers matters. Examples of continuous data: time, temperature, distance, mass, height, etc.

Bar and Line Graph Characteristics X axis Y axis The manipulated variable is always on the X axis The responding variable is always on the Y axis Y Responding variable X Manipulated variable

Bar and Line Graph Characteristics The scales on each axis have even intervals. Notice that the intervals do not need to be the same size on both axes! Y 250 200 150 100 50 X 5 10 15 20 25 30 35

Bar and Line Graph Characteristics Y (cm) Each axis is labeled. Each label has a unit. 250 200 150 Plant Height 100 50 X 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 Time (days)

Bar and Line Graph Characteristics Y (cm) Plot your points… 250 200 150 Plant Height 100 50 X 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 Time (days)

Bar and Line Graph Characteristics Y …or draw your bars. 250 200 Bee Emergence Time (sec) 150 100 50 X A B C Perfume Types

Bar and Line Graph Characteristics The Effect of Different Perfumes on Bee Behavior Y And don’t forget to give your graph a descriptive title! 250 200 Bee Emergence Time (sec) 150 100 50 X A B C Perfume Types