1. Data Collection and Graphing

2. Data Collection Guidelines
Information collected during an experiment is called data. Always be careful, thorough, consistent and accurate when you are collecting data.
Always complete as many repeated trials as is reasonably possible.

3. Manipulated Variable (Independent Variable)
Clearly identify the category of the independent (manipulated) variable.
Continuous: levels of the independent variable that are measurements based on a continuous scale.
Discontinuous: levels of the independent variable that are distinct, discrete categories.

4. Measured Variable (Dependent Variable)
Clearly identify the category of data collected for the dependent (measured) variable.
Quantitative measurement: continuous data collected using measurements based on standard scale of metric or English units.
Qualitative measurement: discontinuous data that is classified into discrete categories.

5. Making Your Data Table
Make a table containing vertical columns for (1) the independent variable, (2) dependent variable and (3) statistical calculations (i.e. mean/average). The independent variable values are listed in the first column. Use a ruler. Are the cells of your table large enough?
Subdivide the column for the dependent variable to reflect the number of trials.

6. Making Your Data Table
Under the independent variable column, list the levels/treatments of the independent variable in rows – preferably from the smallest to the largest.
Title the data table (i.e. The Effect of Independent Variable on Dependent Variable)
Record all data values and calculations in the appropriate locations.

7. Is the data Continuous or Discontinous?
Graphing
Is the data Continuous or Discontinous?

8. Setting up a Graph
Your graph uses pencil only (coloured pencil may be used to distinguish lines).
A ruler is used to draw the x-axis and the y-axis on the grid.
The scale on the x-axis and y-axis use as much space as possible.

10. The number indicators (tick marks) are clear, evenly spaced and the numbers are clearly written:

11. VERY IMPORTANT
Both the x-axis and y-axis are labeled with units of measurement clearly shown (ex: g, mL, etc.)
The measured variable (dependent variable) on y-axis.
The manipulated variable (independent variable) on x-axis.

12. data points are carefully plotted using a dot and a circle

13. Either a best-fit or connect-the- dots line is neatly drawn (according to teacher instruction).

14. The title is in the appropriate place and is describes what the graph represents.
The effect of _______ on _______
manipulated (x) measured (y)

15. - The title is in the appropriate place and is describes what the graph represents.
- Your name and the date are written in the appropriate spot at the top.