Why Use Charts:
A page full of numbers is very hard to understand. But if you put those same numbers on the right kind of chart, they become very easy to understand. There are many kinds of charts. For this experiment, we will use a line graph. Think of a chart as your presentation or final report showing all the work you have done.
Units:
The first step is to select the units of measure. Along the bottom of your chart, write in the dates that correspond to the days on which you took measurements. Put the first day next to the word "TIME" at the left. Each new date should be an increase of equal amount. The amount of change from date to date is called the unit of measure.
To determine the best units for the water (percipitation), look at the measurements on your Data Record Handout. When you write the units on your chart, you want your smallest unit to be near the bottom, just above the word "WATER." Your largest measure should be near the top. Choose the units that would make this possible. Example: 1/8th cup steps.
Plotting Data Points:
It is easiest to plot only one column from your Data Record at a time. Draw a dot above each date for the amount of "Snowfall" recorded. When you are finished, connect the dots with a colored marker. Next, draw dots for the surface density and use a different color of marker to connect the dots. Do the same for the "Snowpack." Choose a title or headline for your graph and write it along the top.
