Identify features of graphs that may be misleading. SPI 0606.5.2

Links verified on 1/03/2010

1. Class Interval - how to make the same data appear to support two different positions
2. CNN posted misleading graph - poll results on Schiavo case - graph as presented and how it should have been shown
3. Examples of Bad Graphs - examples are linked and students are asked to identify some of the problems with these graphs
4. Histograms and Bar Graphs - lesson plan on how data can be graphically represented (and misrepresented)
5. Junk Charts - several examples of using graphs to mislead
6. Misleading Graphs - a short YouTube video using one example graph
7. Misleading Graphs - comparison of two graphs
8. Misleading Graphs - using only part of the data to misrepresent a point
9. Misleading Graphs - lesson plan from Shodor
10. Misleading Graphs - lesson plan from North Canton Schools which includes a link to an Excel workbook to download and use with the lesson
11. Misleading Graphs - how deaths from measles may be misrepresented
12. Misleading Graphs - sheet to print and use in class [from Glencoe]
13. Misleading Graphs - showing the relationship between asphalt use in Finland and asthma rates
• Excel file - use this spreadsheet to support the lesson plan above
14. Misleading Graphs and Statistics - multiple-choice quiz [5 problems]
15. The Treasury Department's Junk Chart - example and explanation
16. Vertical Scale Discussion - lesson plan from Shodor
17. Visual, as well as Statistical, Misunderstanding - examples of misleading presentation of data
    • Context: Compared to What? - a graph must not show data out of context
    • Goosed Up Graphics - making things appear to be `better' than they are by fiddling with the scales
    • Have Something to Say - "Knowin' all the words in the dictionary ain't gonna help if you got nuttin' to say" - a quote from Blind Lemon Jefferson, the great blues musician
    • The Lie Factor - the ratio of the size of an effect shown in the graphic is not proportional to the size of the effect in the data
    • Missed Opportunities - some important information was there, but the graph maker missed it
18. Wikipedia article on the Laffer Curve - showing possible misuse of data in economics