Numbers in Science
Why Do We Collect Data?
We collect data to analyze test results, calculate averages, compare our data with other sets of data, and to prove our hypothesis
Data is collected, organized, and represented in a meaningful way by making graphs.
What is an Average?
An average is the total measured amount divided by the number of trials.
Trial Yards Thrown
1 30
2 45
3 13
Avg. 29.3
How did we find it?
Trial Yards Thrown
1 30
2 45
3 13
Avg. 29.3
30 +45+13 = 88
88/3 = 29.3 to find the %, multiply by 100 29.3%
Using Tables to Organize Data
Tables are the most practical way to organize your data
It makes the numbers easier to read and makes graphing your data easier
Graphing DataData can be visualized using graphs
Three main types of graphsBar Graph
Line Graph
Pie Graph
Bar GraphsNumerical values are represented by the height of a “bar”
Month Number of Scoops Sold
May 54
June 120
July 342
August 220
September 48
We can turn this table of data into a bar graph
Line Graphs
Pie ChartsUse a pie chart to display percentages
Graphs and Tables Cont.
Graphs and tables should ALWAYS contain a title and axis labels
Keep is simple and to the point
Is My Data Accurate?
To determine if your data is accurate you must think about how you conducted the experiment
Was there anything that could have thrown off your data?
Environment
User error
Precision of instruments