DISPLAYING DATA

• There are many different kinds of graphs that are used to show information. Another name for information is data. Graphs make reports and science research more powerful because they give us a way to see with our eyes what the numbers actually mean. They sort of bring the numbers to life so we can analyze what is happening and understand it better.

• The kind of graph you choose depends on what you want to show. Some graph styles are more powerful than others to emphasize specific information that you want to stand out. You should consider all of the graph choices when you have data to include in a report or presentation.

• A pie chart is good for showing a part of a whole. A line graph is an excellent choice if you want to describe how something changes over time, or emphasize big differences between the highest and lowest numbers, or the shortest and tallest plants. Data is represented with pictures or symbols on a pictograph. Each picture or symbol can represent whatever number of items you choose. A colorful bar graph can show changes over time, or comparisons between two or more things. A Venn diagram uses two overlapping circles. They are especially good for sorting information on two different characteristics. For example: plants with green leaves on the left, plants with flowers on the right, and plants with both in the middle where the circles overlap. Choosing the right kind of graph can help you build a better project.

 Name:__________________________________

Answer the following questions based on the reading passage. Don’t forget to go back to the passage whenever necessary to find or confirm   your answers.

1)  Why should you use graphs to display your data?

2)  If you wanted to show how much of your allowance you spent on each thing you bought, which graph would be a good choice?

3)  Which kind of graph will allow you to use lots of color to display your data?

4)  How is a Venn diagram used?

5)  What kind of graph would you be willing to try using on your next project? Why?