Graphing
Graphing Guidelines Graphs must be neatly drawn using a straight edge and pencil. Use the x-axis for the manipulated variable and the y-axis for the responding variable. Manipulated Variable AKA Independent variable - refers to what the experimenter is changing. (Located in the first column on a data table always x ) Responding variable AKA Dependent variable - refers to what happens in response to the experimenters changes. (Located in the second column on a data table always y). Controlled variables refers to all the things that remain the same during the entire experiment.
Decide on the scale of the graph (maximum and minimum values) and select the axis. Each division (square) must equal the same value. It is not necessary to have the same scale on both axis. Label both the x and y axis and provide the graph with a descriptive title. The title always expresses the relationship between manipulated and responding variables. Plot the data points and draw a circle around each point. Draw a line of best fit (trend line) - The "best-fit" line is the straight line which passes as near to as many of the points as possible. By drawing such a line, we are attempting to minimize the effects of random errors in the measurements. The best-fit line does not necessarily pass through any of the points plotted. If more than one line is to be drawn on your graphing paper a legend or key is required to be placed in the top right hand corner of your graph. Each line should be drawn with a different colored lead or symbol. In the top right hand corner of your paper write your name, date, and block #.
Performance Criteria Graphing Scientific Data (Performance List Rubric) Basically, how we mark your graphs 1 Appropriate type of graph was used correctly to display data. (line, bar, circle, etc) 2 Title of the graph clearly identifies data displayed on graph. 3 Scale chosen is easy to read and has equal division. The data points should be spread so that half of the graph paper is used. 4. All parts of the graph are clearly labeled. (units of measurement, axis, title, columns, rows, etc) 5 Manipulated variable is labeled on x-axis and responding on y-axis. 6 Legend or Key is indicated on graph if needed. 7. Graph is completed neatly in pencil.
How to identify variables from a graph or table of information Water Intake (mm) Plant Height (cm) 0 0 1.7 1.2 3 1.5 4 2.2 5.5 2.9 6.8 4 9.5 5 11.4 6.3
Circle graphs Circle represents the total (Complete Pizza) Wedges or segments represents the parts (show the part of the pizza that each person ate) In a circle graph all of the parts add up to the total, or 100% Circle Graphs can be used to display data in a number of separate categories. Unlike bar graphs, however, circle graphs can be used only when you have data for all the categories that make up the whole.
To determine percentages you take the number of pieces eaten and divide it by the total number of pieces of pizza for each person. Ex: Natalia 4/8 = 0.5 (To calculate as a percentage multiply 0.5 X 100 = 50%)
To go from percentages to the number of slices, you need to multiply the decimal by the total number of slices. Example: Charlotte ate 12.5% of the pizza. 12.5% = 0.125 Total Number of slices in the whole pizza: 8 8 x 0.125 = 1 slice of pizza
Pie Graph Worksheet
Bar Graphs A bar graph is a diagram in which data about separate but related items are represented. You usually place the categories being studied on the horizontal axis. Place the measurements or amounts on the vertical axis. The measurement for each category is represented by a separate bar. The length of the bar indicates the amount of the measurement. Use an equal number of squares for the width of each bar and leave a space of at least one square between the bars.
Use the table below to create a bar graph, include labels and chart title. Hockey Team # of Goals A 3 B 8 C 0 D 15
Bar Graph Worksheet
Line Graphs A line graph is used to display data that shows how one variable (the responding variable) changes in response to another variable (the manipulated variable) You should use a line graph when your manipulated variable is continuous, that is, when there are other measurements possible between the ones you tested. For example, temperature is a continuous variable since 27 is between 26 and 28, and 22.5 is between 22 and 23. Temperature, time, mass, and velocity are just a few examples of continuous variables.
Line Graphs (Table)
Line Graph
Can You Plot Points Worksheet
Line Graph Worksheets
IMPORTANT DATES Krusty assignment Due Date: Graphing & Variable Quiz Due Date: