Searching for SolutionsUsing a Graph
Searching for Solutions
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Strategy 4 - Using a
Graph
Graphs are used to compare data. There are many different kinds of graphs: circle graphs, line graphs, bar graphs, and pictographs. During this lesson, you will look at various graphs found on the web. Then you will answer questions about the data in these graphs. Get ready to read and interpret data.
Activity 1: We'll begin by looking at a variety of Statistical Graphs. Select at least three graphs to evaluate for this activity.
Read the Advantages and Disadvantages for each of these graphs. Then, preview examples of these graphs and play close attention to the look of the graph as well as the data used to create the graph.
Use one of the graphs and describe it according to the information listed below.
 | Type of Graph |
| Name of Graph |
| Data Being Compared in the Graph |
| Most Important Trend or Data Item in the Data |
| Conclusions About the Data - Is this true or fictitious data? How do you know? Is this a trustworthy web site? How do you know? |
Extension: At the Create a Graph website, you can view a variety of graphs. Select the Examples tab on the left side of the screen to choose types of graphs.
Activity 2: Learn more about Rainfall and Temperature in Australia.
| Visit the Bureau of Meteorology website at: http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/forms/map_forms/imagemap.shtml and select an Australian state. |
| Then, select a city or town in that state. |
| Carefully analyze the climate data in the city or town you chose. |
| Take detailed notes on the average rainfall and temperatures. Notice the times of year when this area is under wet conditions and dry conditions. Also, pay close attention to the number of days and the amount of rainfall during each month. |
| Then, compare the rainfall times to the temperature readings. Keep in mind that these temperatures are in Celsius rather than Fahrenheit. If you need help converting from Celsius to Fahrenheit, go to the Temperature Conversions website for some tips. You may need a calculator to help you, as well. |
| What can you determine about the kind of precipitation this area receives most often? How does this compare to the kind of climate you live in? |
| Write a paragraph describing
the year-long weather for the city or town.
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© Searching for Solutions - A Web-Based Problem-Solving Unit - Developed by Judy Campf, e-Learning Specialist.
