Graphing A. A graph is a visual representation of the relationship between two variables.   1. The two variables are:   a. Independent Variable = The variable that YOU control in an experiment. It always goes on the   b. Dependent Variable = The variable that DEPENDS ON the independent variable. It always goes on the x axis. y axis.

I d Independent Variable (on the x-axis) Dependent Variable (on the y-axis) I d

B. The x and y axes must be set up with equal intervals!!!! (always count by the same interval and skip the same number of boxes along that axis.)

Ex: “Independent” vs. “Dependent” Title Ex: “Independent” vs. “Dependent” Ex: The Effect of “Independent” on “Dependent” Place circles around dots and connect Label axes (include units)

C. Stating the relationship between 2 variables: “As ________________ increases, ____________ increases/decreases/remains the same.” the independent variable the dependent variable 1. DIRECT RELATIONSHIP = Both variables increase OR both variables decrease. 2. INDIRECT RELATIONSHIP = One variable increases and the other variable decreases.

  3. CYCLIC RELATIONSHIP = The dependent variable increases and decreases in a repeating, predictable pattern over time. 4. STATIC RELATIONSHIP = One variable remains the same, while the other variable increases.

Plant Growth Rate from Day 2 to Day 5: D. Rate of Change:  1. How quickly something occurs or changes in a given amount of time. 2. Formula Rate =Change in Field Value OR Change in Y Time Change in X 3. Example: Plant Growth Rate from Day 2 to Day 5: 8 cm – 2 cm = 6 cm = Day 5 – Day 2 3 days 2 cm/day

4. Steeper Lines (slopes of lines) indicate a greater rate of change (i.e. faster)