Graphing Notes

O Graphs are used to show the results you obtained from an experiment. O When you draw a graph, put the independent variable on the x-axis (horizontal axis) and put the dependent variable on the y-axis (vertical axis). O The title must go at the top of the graph and be detailed enough to describe what is being shown on the graph.

Changes in Speed over Six Seconds Dependent variable Independent variable title

O There are three types of graphs.

1. Bar Graph O Uses bars to show the number of separate categories. O Used to show comparisons between sets of data.

Example: Which bird seed does the bird species feed on the most? O What is the Independent Variable? Seed type O What is the Dependent Variable? Number of species

2. Line Graph O Uses lines to show the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. O Used to show how the dependent variable changes in response to the independent variable.

Example: O What is the Independent Variable? Time in minutes O What is the Dependent Variable? Number of students able to locate suitable materials

3. Circle Graph O Used to show parts of a whole O Data is usually expressed as a percent O It does NOT show change over time

Example: What is the most favorite type of movie?

Let’s Test Your Skills. Class 3 rd grade4 th grade5 th grade6 th grade Number of minutes At Elm Street School students have computer class once a week. The chart shows the number of minutes each class spends in the computer lab. Which is the most appropriate graph of the information shown in the chart? Graph AGraph B

What Is Wrong With Graph B? Class 3 rd grade4 th grade5 th grade6 th grade Number of minutes At Elm Street School students have computer class once a week. The chart shows the number of minutes each class spends in the computer lab. Which is the most appropriate graph of the information shown in the chart? Graph AGraph B