What’s a graph?
Graphs help display numbers. There
are many different kinds
of graphs, but all have
number scales and labels
to identify the data.
Bar graphs show frequencies
and help make comparisons
to show “how much
of something.” The
trait used to sort the
data on a bar graph is
indicated on the horizontal
axis. The count is
shown on the vertical axis.
A line graph has two separate
scales of numbers that
organize the data—one
along the horizontal axis
and one along the vertical
axis. The line graph
helps the observer make
counts, compare frequencies,
determine highs and lows,
and look for data patterns. It
is also used to show change
over time.
A circle graph shows part-to-whole
relationships. The
entire circle represents
all data and the total
is divided into parts to
represent groups within
the data. The strength
of a circle graph is that
it clearly shows how the
parts relate to the whole.
Graphs help observers see patterns
and trends to numbers. They
can be a powerful tool. |
