Title: “Analyzing Temperature Changes: Line Graphs”

Desired Outcome: I can display data in a clear way using a suitable scale, by choosing appropriately from an extended range of tables, charts, diagrams, and graphs, making effective use of technology.

Curriculum Level: Second Level (Scottish Curriculum)

Focus: Line Graphs

Introduction: In this activity, we will explore how to display temperature changes using line graphs. Line graphs are an effective way to represent data over time. We will use real-world temperature data to create line graphs and analyze the trends and patterns.

Materials: - Access to a computer or tablet with spreadsheet software (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets) - Temperature data table (provided below) - Graph paper or a graphing tool (optional)

Procedure:

Step 1: Introduction to Line Graphs Begin by discussing the purpose and characteristics of line graphs. Explain that line graphs are used to show how data changes over time. Emphasize that the x-axis represents time, and the y-axis represents the temperature.

Step 2: Collecting Temperature Data Provide students with a table containing temperature data for a specific location over a week. The table should include the date and the corresponding temperature for each day. For example:

Date Temperature (°C)

Monday 15 Tuesday 18 Wednesday 20 Thursday 17 Friday 22 Saturday 19 Sunday 16

Step 3: Creating a Line Graph Using a computer or tablet with spreadsheet software, guide students through the process of creating a line graph using the provided temperature data. Demonstrate how to label the x-axis with the dates and the y-axis with the temperature values. Show them how to plot the points and connect them with a line.

Step 4: Analyzing the Line Graph Once the line graph is created, ask students to analyze the data and answer questions such as: - What was the highest temperature during the week? - What was the lowest temperature during the week? - Were there any significant temperature changes during the week? - Did the temperature increase or decrease over time?

Step 5: Extending the Activity To further develop students’ understanding of line graphs, provide additional temperature data for different weeks or locations. Ask students to create line graphs for each set of data and compare the trends and patterns. Encourage them to use different scales and colors to enhance the clarity of their graphs.

Step 6: Reflecting on Technology Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using technology (spreadsheet software) to create line graphs. Ask students to reflect on how technology can help in displaying data more effectively and efficiently.

Extension Activity: Challenge students to find temperature data for a longer period (e.g., a month) and create a line graph to represent the changes over time. This will allow them to practice scaling the graph appropriately and interpreting more complex data.

Assessment: Assess students based on their ability to create accurate line graphs, label the axes correctly, and analyze the data displayed. Additionally, evaluate their understanding of how to choose a suitable scale and make effective use of technology to display data clearly.

Note: Teachers should adapt the activity and data to suit their specific classroom needs and available resources.