Histograms

Histograms are another way of visualizing data. Watch this video to get a better understanding of when and how they are used.

So now that you know what a histogram is, its time to create one for yourself. Take a look at the following table. This is a breakdown of the number of Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors in a series of Applications classes.

Class 1
Freshmen 5
Sophomores 7
Juniors 3
Seniors 2

Class 2
Freshmen 13
Sophomores 8
Juniors 2
Seniors 1

Class 3
Freshmen 4
Sophomores 11
Juniors 2
Seniors 2

Class 4
Freshmen 8
Sophomores 3
Juniors 4
Seniors 0

Assignment:

Create a histogram for each class using Google Draw. You may put all four histograms on a single 8.5x11" page. Use color to differentiate the classifications. Remember that one of the primary differences between is bar chart and a histogram is that there are no spaces between the bars on histograms.

Open up a Google Docs file. Write an analysis of the data answering the following questions:

1. What seems to be a similar trait of all of the classes. What would you say is true of all the classes in general?

2. Do any of the classes stand out for any reason? Explain your answer using the data provided.

3. How does the histogram help you understand the data?

Creating Bar Charts

One of the difficulties in presenting the results of research is explaining the numbers. Many people understand data visually so it helps to show numeric data visually. One of the best ways to show data is though a bar chart. You can read more about bar chars here:

http://www.mathsisfun.com/data/bar-graphs.html

Recently the Commonwealth Fund released some interesting data comparing the relative quality of care in 11 industrialized countries. Examine the chart below.

Take a look at the chart, particularly the section that shows the "expenditure per capita." How could a bar chart better show the expenditure per capita?

Assignment:

Create a bar chart in Google Draw showing the per capita expenditure for health care in each of the 11 nations shown in the graph above. Use various colors to differentiate the nations. Here is an example of what you will produce.

https://docs.google.com/drawings/d/1tn1-4LyHCGAqoNeQJuIxos17QmmUEmgpyLL3fTCzP7s/edit?usp=sharing

You should be able to re-create this bar chart with the skills you already have.

1. Create a new folder on your Google Drive, label it Charts.
2. Create a new Google Draw file and label it Bar Chart.
3. Use the sample I have provided as an example.
4. Share your Charts folder so I can inspect your work.


Rubric:

Nations are listed correctly 0-3 points
Data is entered accurately 0-3 points
Bars are set correctly 0-4 points

Total points available 10

Now, Check this out when you're done.

Brochure Basics

Three panel brochures are a very easy way to get your message into the hands of customers. Creating them can be a little tricky though.

 The easiest way to lay one out is to create a blank brochure using a plain piece of paper. make the overleaf panel slightly smaller than the front and back. The overleaf should measure approximately 3 5/8". To finish the other fold, simply fold the folded edge to the opposite side. 

After you finish the blank prototype, label each panel so you can keep up with the inside and outside. Create your page in Google draw or Google Docs and you're ready to start designing.

Assignment: Put your school map into the form of a three panel brochure. Create a cover and back with the school name. On the overleaf, put a welcome message. Save the finished file to your maps project folder.

If you like, you can copy a template to your Google Drive using this link:

https://docs.google.com/drawings/d/1-kpFHdEU9HPNr-Va92zNeldygVQ9optUedFd2oPI0kA/edit?usp=sharing

Directional Signs

It takes more than just a good map to navigate an unfamiliar space, you need landmarks in order to orient yourself  to the space on the map. Directional signs can help visitors navigate an unfamiliar space. Study the directional maps below.

How does the use of color help visitors understand landmarks and directions?
How could you use these signs if you could not read or didn't understand the language?
How can symbols be used to help communicate?

Assignment: Create a system of directional signs that you could use in your school. Use color, symbol, or alternative languages to help visitors navigate the space. Show the system of colors, symbols and sign design that you would use and match them up to the map you created earlier. Make sure that you could use the system to create any sort of sign needed. Show how your signs would look at 5 intersections. Indicate where and how they will be mounted.

Finding your way with maps

Have you ever been to an airport or mall that you are unfamiliar with? If you're like most people, you found your way around with a simple map. Many public buildings and transportation centers use simple maps to help people navigate complex buildings and cities. Study he maps below. Notice the use of simple shapes and colors to organize large and complex spaces.

Memphis International Airport

Wolfchase Mall - Memphis, TN

Metro Atlanta Rapid Transit

Washington Metro 

FedEx Forum - Memphis, TN

Naga City School

Assignment: Think about your school. How could you create a simple map to organize the space to help people orient themselves and find their way? Use Google Drawings to create a simple map using lines, shapes and colors to help visitors find their way. Organize the classrooms by subject using color. Assign specific colors to the administrative and recreational portions of the building. Mark places of interest such as restrooms, and entry/exit doors. Place the map on an 8.5x11" page. Title the file School Map and place the map in a shared folder titled Map Project. Turn in this project by the end of class.

Extend your knowledge

Try creating a totally new soccer schedule poster for Haywood High School. You may use the resources below:

Soccer Schedule:

http://www.haywoodschools.com/page.php?pageid=94

Use any fonts you like as long as you make it effective. Size it at 8.5x11 portrait or landscape. Drop your finished poster in your Posters folder by the end of class.