Graphs are used to visually display data and allow for easy comparison of variables. The three most common types of graphs are line graphs, bar graphs, and pie charts. To create a graph, you label the axes, plot the independent variable on the x-axis and dependent variable on the y-axis, decide on intervals for each axis, plot the data points, and connect them with a line for line graphs. The SULTAN method is used to ensure graphs are properly scaled, labeled with units and a title, and have the independent variable on the x-axis and dependent on the y-axis. Bar graphs specifically show comparisons and require a key to identify different bars.

1. Graphing

2. Make a Table Data Table A chart used to organize sets of data Usually a T-chart

3. Graph A graph is a way in which to visually show information. Graphs allow for easy comparison of multiple variables. There are many different types of graphs but the 3 most common are line graphs, bar graphs and pie charts. In this class we will primarily be using line graphs and bar graphs

5. Creating a graph Draw and label the x and y axis. The y axis is the vertical axis and the x axis is the horizontal one Label what variable is on each of the axis The IV should always be on the x-axis The DV should be on the Y-axis.

6. Variables Variable A factor that can cause a change in the results of an experiment. Independent Variable Factor, that as it changes, affects the measure of another variable. Goes on left side of data table Horizontal axis of graph Dependent Variable Factor that changes as the independent variable changes. Goes on right side of data table Vertical axis of graph Control Variable The standard used for comparison of test results in a lab activity.

7. Decide on what intervals you will be using on each axis and write those in Be sure that the intervals are appropriate to the measurements you have taken Ex. If you are measuring growth of a plant each week, you shouldn’t use meters on your graph

8. Plot the data points that you collected on the graph. Data=The “stuff” collected in a lab activity If it is a line graph, connect the points with as smooth a line as possible. If it is a double line graph you need to make each line a different color.

9. SULTAN Method Scale -make sure that the data is spaced out equally so it covers the entire space of the graph. Do not use the line break. Use tic marks to represent where your numbers are on your axis. Always start numbering with zero and Count consecutively. Units these are represented by what you measured in (inches, pounds, number of students). Label this tells what the variable measured (height, weight, class size) Title This tells what the two variables that were measured. Typically How does X affect Y ? Easier is X vs. Y Axis -put the independent on the X and Dependent on the Y Neatness -is your line connected neatly and connects to the dots? Is the writing legible?

10. Bar graphs Bar graphs are primarily used to show comparisons such as individual student scores, costs at stores, densities of different materials. They still follow the SULTAN setup You must include a key to help the reader see what the difference is the bars are.