Homework for Tuesday, October 7

Assignment: Three Different Impressions

Due: Wednesday, October 8

Today was another shift into graphing. In class we first looked at actual misleading graphs and how they can be used to transmit a message to the viewer who is not alert. They were able to identify how scale and the data that is selected to highlight can skew their impression. They began partner graphs to represent data, selecting their scales to be dramatic, and preparing for questions and discussion to follow. We will resume this partner task in class after conferences.

The assignment for tonight reflects these concepts as well, but for this assignment they are given two scales to graph as line plots. For the third graph they received a view to prove by selecting a scale and drawing a graph that "proves" their position. 

So, how can you help?

*Make sure they use as much of the graph as possible as well as a scale that dramatizes their given message. They should go out of their way to be convincing while still having a legitimate scale and accurate points.

*Remind them there are two scales: both the x and the y axis. They could increase the scale of the time AND the cost if they so desire. 

*Have them adjust their scale(s) if it is too compacted and/or their scale(s) could be adjusted. They want to hit the viewer over the head with their message and not leave room for other interpretations. 

*Have them mark their points clearly and connect those points with straight lines. They need to be able to read their graph accurately.

*Talk about it with them! What does the graph tell you? What is emphasized? What is hidden beneath the dramatic scale? 

*There are two goals here: 1) can you create a graph to convey a message while using actual data and 2) can you read between the lines to understand the actual data that is being represented.

The decimals unit test will be on Wednesday, October 15. Help them get those notes ready to go!