Interpreting Scatterplots

What is a line of best fit used for?

• To make predictions

• To make the graph look pretty

• To connect the points

• To make it look like you know what you are doing

Examine each scatterplot and identify each as showing a positive correlation, a negative correlation or no correlation. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

a

negative correlation

no correlation

postive correlation

Answer explanation

Examine the scatterplot below and identify it as showing a positive correlation, a negative correlation or no correlation.

b

negative correlation

positive correlation

no correlation

Examine the scatterplot below and identify it as showing a positive correlation, a negative correlation or no correlation.

c

negative correlation

no correlation

positive correlation

The enrollment at North Shore High School is given below. Year is x; enrollment is y. (2006,801), (2007,834), (2008,844), (2009,897), (2010,922). Construct a scatterplot to depict the data. Describe the correlation from the scatterplot.

The following scatter plot shows the weights and lengths of some dinosaurs.  Which statement accurately describes the information?

• The information shows a positive correlation.  The weight of a dinosaur tends to increase according to its length.

• The information shows a negative correlation.  the weight of a dinosaur tends to decrease according to its length.

• The information shows no correlation.  The weight and length vary according to the type of dinosaur.

• The information shows no correlation.  The relationship between the weight and length of a dinosaur is uncertain.

Which statement is the most accurate interpretation of the data?

• As time went by, the temperature tended to decrease

• As time went by the temperature tended to increase

• There is no relationship between time and temperature.

How would you describe the association?

• negative linear strong with outlier

• negative non linear weak

• positive linear moderate with outlier

• outlier

What is the type of association?

• Negative 

• no association

• positive 

This scatterplot could show the relationship between which two variables?

• speed of an airplane (x) vs. distance traveled in one hour (y)

• outside air temperature (x) vs. air-conditioning costs (y)

• age of an adult (x) vs. height of an adult (y)

• distance traveled (x) vs. gas remaining in the tank (y)