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Measuring and recording results
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Good results are measured in the right units, recorded clearly and shown on the right kind of graph.
SI units
Scientists everywhere use the same SI units.
Results tables and means
Put the independent variable in the first column. Write the unit in the column heading, not in every box.
To find the mean: add the repeat readings and divide by how many there are.
An anomalous result does not fit the pattern. Check it, and leave it out of the mean.
To find the mean: add the repeat readings and divide by how many there are.
An anomalous result does not fit the pattern. Check it, and leave it out of the mean.
Graphs
If the independent variable is in categories (like type of material), draw a bar chart.
If it is continuous (numbers, like temperature), draw a line graph and a line of best fit.
The independent variable goes on the x-axis (across).
If it is continuous (numbers, like temperature), draw a line graph and a line of best fit.
The independent variable goes on the x-axis (across).
A plant grows 12 cm, 14 cm and 13 cm in three repeats. Find the mean.
- Add: 12 + 14 + 13 = 39
- Divide by 3: 39 ÷ 3
Answer: 13 cm
Use SI units. Put the unit in the table heading. Mean = total ÷ number of readings, leaving out anomalies. Bar chart for categories, line graph for continuous data.
The interactive lesson includes the diagrams for this topic.
Check you have got it
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