Let’s GRAPH! A 6 Step Solution

#1 Pick the appropriate graph. Remember the tricks… 1 set of numbers = BAR GRAPH 2 sets of numbers = LINE GRAPH Change over TIME = LINE GRAPH

#1 Pick the appropriate graph. 5 54 10 45 15 29 20 25 18

# 2 Find the Independent Variable. Known before the experiment begins; chosen by the experimenter. DATA TABLE = 1st COLUMN GRAPH = X-AXIS Label (write) the VARIABLE & UNITS on the X-AXIS.

# 2 Find the Independent Variable. Time (min) Temperature of Coffee (oC) X

# 3 Find the Dependent Variable. DATA collected during the experiment; you have to “wait” for this one; what will you write down? DATA TABLE = 2nd COLUMN GRAPH = Y-AXIS Label (write) the VARIABLE & UNITS on the Y-AXIS.

# 3 Find the Dependent Variable. Time (min) Temperature of Coffee (oC) Y

#4 Write a TITLE for the graph. Independent Variable vs. Dependent Variable Remember to write out the complete IV and the complete DV.

#5 Determine the SCALE for the x & y. Ask yourself, “What is the highest number for each axis?” Count the number of LINES you have to work with. DIVIDE: HIGHEST number Number of LINES Each line should be “worth” this number

#5 Determine the SCALE for the x & y. Time (min) Temperature of Coffee (oC) 5 54 10 45 15 29 20 25 18 Highest for the y axis Highest for the x axis

#6 Add the DATA to the graph. BAR GRAPH – Bars should be straight, not touching. LINE GRAPH – Connect the DATA POINTS ONLY; do not connect the line to the origin, unless the origin is part of your data set.