Download Types and Uses of Geographic Tools

Types and Uses of Geographic Tools
TYPES/USES OF GRAPHS:
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Pictographs – simple representations using symbols
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Bar graphs – used to make comparisons of data
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Line graphs – used to determine change over time of given datasets
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Multi-line graphs – used to indicate change over time and allow comparison of data
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Circle graphs – used to compare parts to the whole
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Scatter plot – uses x-y plots of pairs of values to investigate possible relationships between the
two variables. Unlike a line graph, scatter plot graphs do not connect the points with a line
(although a regression or “best fit” line can be generated from the plots that can suggest how
strong the relationship is between the two values).
USES OF TABLES/CHARTS:
These tools represent factual and/or statistical data and/or present information in an organized way to
make analysis and comparison easier. Data is arranged in rows and columns with descriptive labels.
Numerical data from charts/tables can be transferred to graph form using traditional methods (graph
paper, sketch graphs) or computer programs.
TYPES/USES OF OTHER DATA REPRESENTATIONS:
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Cartograms - “value by area” maps, represent data based on relative size of a place in
relationship to a particular factor being measured. Common measures are population, per capita
GDP, etc.
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Population pyramids - summarize an area’s population structure in stacked horizontal bar graphs
ordered by increasing age groups (or cohorts). The y-axis reflects age groupings. Two horizontal
bar graphs showing the population of each age group extend from the y-axis, right for one sex
and left for the other.
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Photographs: pictures [often aerial] of geographic features or phenomena illustrate a variety of
geographic factors
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Diagrams or models – provide illustrations of geographic features or phenomena.
CRITERIA FOR DETERMINING THE USEFULNESS OF VARIOUS REPRESENTATIONS OF DATA:
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Maps, photos, diagrams represent physical and human characteristics of places; using a series of
maps [particularly GIS or satellite imagery] shows change
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Graphs [various types] allow comparisons of statistical data.
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Tables/charts can be used for factual or statistical data and make comparison, analysis,
summarization, inferences and conclusions easier and more concise than expository text.
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Graphics such as cartograms and population pyramids allow people to see trends and patterns in
statistical data. Population pyramids illustrate changes in population groups
HISD Social Studies Curriculum 2013
World Geography Studies