Types of Graphs and Graphing Concepts

Vocabulary flashcards covering circle graphs, bar graphs, line graphs, independent and dependent variables, and graphing construction rules.

Circle Graph / Pie Chart

A chart used to show how a given amount is broken down in parts, where each segment is usually shown as a percentage.

Bar Graph

A graph useful for comparing information collected by counting, where each bar represents an amount counted at a particular time.

Independent Variable

The variable that is changed or manipulated, which is plotted on the horizontal x axis.

Dependent Variable

The variable that is measured or responding, which is plotted on the vertical y axis.

Series (Line Graph)

The plotting of more than one event on the same line graph, using shapes instead of dots and using the same shape for each series.

Constructing a Line Graph

The procedure of using the whole page to determine the range of numbers, spread them out on each axis, plot only range information, and include a title, scale, open shape, and labeled x and y axes with units.

Line Graph Applications

Graphing methods used for tracking data over time or categories, such as population change over time or temperature for a month or year.