How to Create Bar and Line Graphs

Draw and label the Axis Y – Axis X - Axis

Identify and label variables Y – Axis Dependent Variable (what is being observed) X - Axis Independent (what is being changed by scientist)

Helpful Hint: DRY MIX D – Dependent M – Manipulated R – Responding I – Independent Y – Y axis X – X axis

Scale and Intervals Decide on an appropriate scale Minimum and maximum numbers used on each axis. May not start with zero Numbers used should be a little below the lowest value and a little higher than the highest value Use common and consistent intervals

Scale = 0 to 70 Intervals of 10

Title and labels Place an appropriate and descriptive title at the top of your graph Label the Y and X axis with their variables (X with the independent variable and Y with the dependent variable

Bar Graphs Compare groups by showing relative amounts (totals) or categories

Line Graphs Show relationship between the independent and dependent variable Used to show trends (change over time) and make predictions

Line Graphs can be used to show multiple sets of data

Slugs were fed a variety of foods to determine their feeding preferences. Based on the data given, construct the appropriate graph and formulate a conclusion. Food Source Food Eaten (grams) Lettuce 4.0 Mushrooms 8.2 Dog food 0.0 Spinach 6.5 Apple 8.6 Peach 5.4 Orange 1.0

Slugs Favorite Food

Every ten years scientists counted the number of 3 endangered birds to see if their conservation efforts were working. Review the data table, construct the appropriate graph and formulate a conclusion. Bird Species 1950 1960 1970 Whooping Crane 24 41 78 California Condor 76 46 20 Black Swan 56 58 57

Endangered Bird Populations Number of Birds Years