Section 4: Graphs

(Chapter 2 — The Science Toolbox)

What is a graph?
• A graph is a mathematical _______ that helps you interpret and display the data you
collect from an experiment.
A graph is a picture
• A graph is a picture that shows how two _________________ are related. Graphs are
easier to read than tables of numbers.
Independent variable
• Graphs are drawn with the independent variable on the ______________ or _________.
Independent variables depend on the person doing the experiment.
Dependent variable
• The dependent variable goes on the ____________ or _________. Dependent variables
depend on the independent variables.
Types of graphs
1. A _______ graph is used when one variable causes a second variable to increase or
decrease in value.
2. A _______ graph compares categories of information.
3. A ______ graph is a circular graph that also compares categories of information.

Parts of a graph

A data set is organized into _______ of

values. For every value in the “x” column,
there is a value in the “y” column. Each pair
of values can be represented by writing
(x,y). A pair of values (x,y) represents a
certain location or point on a graph. The x
and y values are the ________________ of
the point.
 MONEY IN CASH BOX
VS.
HOURS WASHING
CARS

Amount of money in cash box

(dollars)

Time washing cars

(hours)

How to make a line graph

Step 1
• Place the independent variable on the ___________ and the dependent variable on the
__________. Be sure to label each axis.
Step 2
• Make a _________ for each axis. Scale refers to how each axis is divided up to fit the
range of data values. For example, we have a piece of graph paper that is 10 boxes by 10
boxes. The range of values for y-axis is 0 to 100. What should be the value for each box?

Use the formula: Data ÷ Number of boxes on the axis = Value per box

!
What if the range of values is 0 to 100 and you have a piece of graph paper that is 5 boxes by 5
boxes?

Step 3
• Plot each point by finding the x-value and tracing the graph __________ until you get to
the correct y-value. Make a dot for each point.
Step 4
• Create a _________ for your graph.