2.3 Data Analysis and Graphing

Bar Graph

Displays category-type data, uses bars, typically showing frequency or amount.

Line Graph

A graph that uses points connected by lines to show how something changes over time or with respect to another continuous variable.

Scatter Plot

A graph that displays individual data points plotted on an x-y axis to show possible correlations, connections or patterns between two variables.

Circle Graph (Pie Chart)

A circular chart split into slices to show proportions, often used to show percentages of a whole.

Independent Variable

The factor that is changed on purpose in an experiment; it is graphed on the x-axis. Also known as the manipulated variable.

Dependent Variable

The factor that is measured in an experiment; it responds to changes in the independent variable and is graphed on the y-axis. Also called the responding variable.

Trend Line

A line added to a graph to indicate the overall direction (increase or decrease) of a dataset over time.

Prediction

An informed estimate about a future data point based on current trends or patterns observed in a graph.

Percent of a Whole

A proportion expressed as a fraction of 100; often shown using circle graphs.