BIO 111 SU Effects of Substrate and pH Catalyzed Reactions Discussion

Graph Checklist

• The correct type of graph is made for the type of data presented (i.e. bar, line, histogram, pie, etc…)
• Graph is neatly constructed, organized, and makes good use of space.If used, colors make the graph more readable.
• For pie graphs, the wedges are clearly labeled, or color coded with a key
• For X-Y axis graphs…
  • the Y axis is labeled with the Responding Variable and the X axis is labeled with the Manipulated Variable
  • Units are clearly and correctly identified along the X and Y axis
  • The graph axes are proportional to the data (meaning the data is spread over the span of the axis, not clumped)
  • X and Y axis intervals are consistent and correct
  • All points are plotted clearly and correctly.In most cases, the mean of the data is graphed (not each individual trial).
  • When the mean is graphed, the standard deviation of each mean in included and labeled
  • If needed, best fit lines or curves are added to the graph to show trends or relationships
• Specific title is included.The title indicates what data is presented, including scientific name if relevant.
• A labeled legend is provided when the graph.Legends identify the different groups of data on the graph.

How do I know which type of graph to use?Follow this key…

1.Is the data a percent that sums to 100% or a total amount of time?

a.If yes.………………………………… Pie chart (not commonly used in biology)

b.If no……………………………………. Go to #2

2.Are both your manipulated and responding variables quantitative (qualitative data) ?

a.If no……………………………………. Bar graph

b.If yes …………………………………. Go to #3

3.Is your manipulated variable levels continuous (i.e. time in years) or clumped into ranges (i.e. 0-5 years, 6-10 years)?

a.Continuous…………………………… Scatter plot/line (most used in biology)

b.Clumped …..…………………………. Histogram