Choosing Scales for Graphs

Mr. McCauley explains how to choose a scale for graphs, focusing on the y-axis. The goal is to make graphs informative by using the full scale, ensuring bars stretch towards the top. He discusses using a 10x10 grid and choosing round numbers for the top value. Examples are provided for different data ranges, emphasizing the importance of selecting a scale that fits the data. The video concludes with a summary of steps to determine the scale and top number.

Why is it important for the bars on a graph to stretch towards the top of the scale?

• To make the graph look symmetrical

• To save space on the paper

• To ensure the graph is easy to read and informative

• To make the graph look colorful

What should you avoid when choosing a scale for the y-axis?

• Using a scale that uses all available space

• Using a scale that makes bars reach the top

• Using a scale that makes bars stretch above the graph

• Using a scale that is a round number

When using a 10 by 10 grid, what is typically at the bottom of the scale?

• The average value

• The highest value

• A random number

• Zero

If the highest value in your data is 18, which round number would be suitable for the top of your scale?

• 50

• 20

• 100

• 10

For a data range from 5 to 97, which round number should you choose for the top of the scale?

• 150

• 100

• 75

• 50

Why is it beneficial to use round numbers for the top of the scale?

• They make the graph look better

• They save space

• They are easier to work with

• They are more accurate

If your data range is from 101 to 523, what would be a suitable top value for your scale?

• 700

• 1000

• 600

• 500

What is the first step in determining the scale for the y-axis?

• Choosing a random number

• Finding the range of the data

• Drawing the graph

• Counting the data points

What is the most important number to consider when finding the range?

• The median value

• The highest value

• The average value

• The lowest value

What should you do after finding the range of your data?

• Count the data points

• Choose a random number

• Select a round number greater than the highest value

• Draw the graph