Data Presentation & Analysis
Physical Education: AQA GCSE, topic 5.2.1
Presenting Data
It is important for collected data to be reported in a clear and concise manner.
Labelling axes
- The X axis runs horizontally (left to right) across the bottom of the chart. This axis usually contains the independent variable. This would be data that something is measured against, such as time.
- The Y axis runs vertically (up to down) along the left side of the chart. This axis usually contains the dependent variable because it is the data you want to know, e.g. the heart rate.
Line charts
- This involves plotting points onto a graph where the points are joined together by a line.
Bar charts
- Here, the points are plotted onto a graph, but the area up to the point is shaded in to show a bar. This area shows an amount of something.
Analysing and Evaluating Data
When you are analysing data, you need to break everything down into smaller bits or identify key information from the chart. When you are evaluating data, you need to think about the reasons for its results.
Tables
- Tables present information clearly in columns.
- For example, a table can show heart rate over a period of 8 minutes. The heart rate recording next to the time column shows the heart rate recorded at that particular time in the test.
Line charts
- When analysing this data, you need to plot the points onto the line chart to show the key points.
- When evaluating the data, you should be able to answer questions such as; ‘what intensity is the athlete working at?’. You can do this by comparing the results against a general standard and giving reasons for why you think they are at a specific intensity.
Bar charts
- Bar charts are an easy way of quantifying a set of results. An individual can clearly see ‘how much’ or ‘how many’ of something, there is/are just by looking at the chart.
Heart rate table
- Time(mins) - Heart rate (bpm)
- 1 minute - 72bpm
- 2 minutes - 77bpm
- 3 minutes - 82bpm
- 4 minutes - 93bpm
- 5 minutes - 104bpm
- 6 minutes - 110bpm
- 7 minutes - 112bpm
- 8 minutes - 112bpm
Pie charts
- Pie charts are an effective way of showing percentages with the segments (of different sizes) of the pie.
Test yourself on Data Presentation & Analysis
Which of the following present information clearly in columns?
Which type of chart is best for seeing percentages?