Scatterplots and Linear Regression Spring 2025

Front

What is a scatterplot?

Back

A scatterplot is a graph that displays values for typically two variables for a set of data. Each point represents an observation in the dataset.

Front

What does a positive correlation indicate in a scatterplot?

Back

A positive correlation indicates that as one variable increases, the other variable also tends to increase.

Front

What does a negative correlation indicate in a scatterplot?

Back

A negative correlation indicates that as one variable increases, the other variable tends to decrease.

Front

What does no correlation mean in a scatterplot?

Back

No correlation means that there is no discernible relationship between the two variables; changes in one do not affect the other.

Front

What is linear regression?

Back

Linear regression is a statistical method used to model the relationship between a dependent variable and one or more independent variables by fitting a linear equation to observed data.

Front

What is the purpose of the line of best fit in a scatterplot?

Back

The line of best fit is used to summarize the relationship between the variables and to make predictions based on the data.

Front

How can you identify a strong positive correlation in a scatterplot?

Back

A strong positive correlation is identified when the points in the scatterplot are closely clustered around a line that slopes upwards from left to right.

Front

How can you identify a strong negative correlation in a scatterplot?

Back

A strong negative correlation is identified when the points in the scatterplot are closely clustered around a line that slopes downwards from left to right.

Front

What is the significance of outliers in a scatterplot?

Back

Outliers are data points that differ significantly from other observations. They can affect the slope of the line of best fit and may indicate variability in the data.

Front

What does the slope of the line of best fit represent?

Back

The slope of the line of best fit represents the rate of change of the dependent variable for each unit change in the independent variable.