Tables, graphs and conclusions · Grade 5
Results are written in a table as you go, then shown on a graph so that patterns are easy to see. From the pattern you write a conclusion: what the results show, and why.
Key facts
- A results table has the independent variable in the first column and the dependent variable (with each repeat) next. Units go in the headings, not in every box.
- Mean = the total of the results ÷ how many there are. Leave anomalies out (or repeat them).
- Range = largest − smallest. A small range means the repeats agree well.
- Draw a bar chart when the independent variable is categoric (names) and a line graph when it is continuous (measured numbers).
- On a line graph the independent variable goes along the bottom (x-axis) and the dependent variable up the side (y-axis). Draw a line of best fit through the points.
- A conclusion describes the pattern (“As the temperature increases, the time to dissolve decreases”) and explains it with science.