Graphing

     One of the most recent topics we discussed in our course was graphs.  We went through a small packet that included a variety of graphs.  We looked at the bar graph, histograms, line graphs, pictographs, circle graphs, and pictorial embellishments.  I personally forgot there were even that many types of graphs.  I haven't deal with this topic for quite a long time.  I always enjoyed constructing graphs to show data.  Graphs are used widely throughout businesses and it is an important concept to know and understand.  

     When I am a teacher one day, I find graphs are a good thing to incorporate in a classroom.  They can be fun and provide a positive learning experience.  In my classroom, I will make a graph of the kid’s heights.  I will collect the data and have them make a graph of their own.  They can decorate their personal graphs and compare and contrast one another’s heights.  This is a good math lesson and can only benefit them later in life.  Unfortunately, some people have the wrong idea of creating a graph.  

      There are graphs out there that have misleading information.  How a graph is created really affects how people perceive the graph and some may see data in a different way then how it really is. Below, I found a graph that doesn't show the data in the best way possible.  It is nice there is a title, but if you look at the scaling on the vertical axis, you will see how it can be difficult to read the information given.  Europe has this 3D effect that looks distant from the scale.  Due to the way this graph has been established, you will not be able to get certain points properly.  Yes, there are positives to this graph such as the coloring and labeling, but I think a line graph, not shown in a 3D form, would be more suitable for information containing a comparison of river runoff through the 20th century.

 

   A more appropriate graph, in my opinion, is shown below. 

 

    I like this graph because it is clear and concise.  You can easily pinpoint certain data you'd like to find and everything is labeled.  There is a legend available consisting of the different color scheme and shapes which makes it easier for the reader.  This graph would have been a better fit for the other graph above.  Even though each graph deals with different types of information, the data can still be portrayed in similar ways.