Today, we learned how to make these graphs using OpenOffice; however, most of you have Excel on your computer, so that's the alternative.
First, you want to open up Microsoft Excel.
Next, you want to plug in a table of values into the cells.
Let's begin on A1, and labelling it as X values.
Then, put down some numbers for X. At the end you should get:
X values
1
2
3
4
5
In the column beside (so starting with B1), label it as Y values.
In B2, enter an equation that can relate X and Y.
This equation must start with "=" then A_ (whatever cell number your values start at, in this case A2) then an operation.
So, we could have something in cell B2 like..... =A2+5
Once the equation is set, you should see the number 6. (because 1+5 = 6)
So:
X values Y values
1 6
2
3
4
5
Now, click on the cell with the y value 6. There should be a small box in the bottom right hand corner. Drag that all the way down until it covers the last y value.
You should see all the numbers plugged in by now.
X values Y values
1 6
2 7
3 8
4 9
5 10
Now, highlight all the values, and click on the bar graph/chart option in the toolbar.
This will pop out a menu. In this menu, choose the scatter plot, and click next. Then, customize it to your liking, and fill in the x-axis and y-axis information, as well as a title.
After you click finish, a graph should pop out.
To add a linear trend line, right-click a point on the graph and click Add Trendline. You can even show the equation, which will give you the slope of this line you just graphed. (in y=mx+b form)
Adding a trendline:
The finished graph before you customize (i.e. changing colours, fonts):
Format your graph by changing the colours, fonts, etc.
AND You have now created a nice graph that shows your data clearly and effectively.
Another useful tool that can be used to make graphs or many cool geometric things, or even just having fun on the computer, is the Geometer's Sketchpad, introduced to me by my math teacher. :)
For more help on making a graph:
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