RESEARCH/STUDY SKILLS
Line Graphs
TEACH
Ask students to identify different kinds of graphs they have seen or used.
Then have
students look at a sample line graph, perhaps in a math book,
while you discuss these
terms and ideas.
- A line graph is a visual way to summarize changes over time. The changes
appear as numbers or amounts.
- Line graphs have two axes—one vertical line and one horizontal.
- The scale (range of numbers) usually appears on the vertical axis.
- The periods of time (hours, weeks, years) are usually labeled below the
horizontal axis.
- Points are plotted where the period of time meets the appropriate number
on the scale. A line connects the points.
Have students work in pairs using an almanac. They should look in the sports
section for
records, times, scores, and so on, that have changed over time.
For example, they might
compare the number of gold medals a country won in
four different Olympic Games.
Alternatively, students may choose to graph personal
data. Partners record the data in a
line graph. With the class, discuss
these questions.
| 1. |
Should you look for data that has numbers that are close together or far
apart? Explain. (Look for numbers that are close together, so the numbers
in the scale are not too far apart.) |
| 2. |
What is an appropriate scale to use for your graph? (Responses will vary.) |
ASSESS
As students collect data, make sure they select numbers that are easy to
graph. Check
that the scale is appropriate and the data points are accurate.
For more practice or to assess students, use Practice Book 3.2, p. 40.