Reading the scale of a graph Simplified Revision Notes for NSC Mathematical Literacy

Revision notes with simplified explanations to understand Reading the scale of a graph quickly and effectively.

Learn about Reading the scale of a graph for your NSC Mathematical Literacy Exam. This Revision Note includes a summary of Reading the scale of a graph for easy recall in your Mathematical Literacy exam

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Reading the scale of a graph

1. Understanding Graph Scales

A graph scale determines the value represented by each space on the axes.

Vertical axis (y-axis): Represents percentages, costs, heights, etc.
Horizontal axis (x-axis): Represents time, distance, quantity, etc.

Tip: Before analysing a graph, write down the scale of each axis for accurate reading.

2. Key Steps to Read a Graph Scale

Check the vertical scale

Identify how much one block represents.
Example: 1 large block = 10%, 1 small block = 2%.

Check the horizontal scale

Determine how much each unit represents.
Example: 1 large block = 1 hour, 1 small block = 0.2 hours.

Locate specific values on the graph

Example: If a point is halfway between 80% and 90%, it represents 85%.

Find key points (A & B) and write them as ordered pairs

Example: A = (3, 26%) and B = (7, 85%).

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3. Worked Example: Reading from a Graph

Given Graph Details:

Each large vertical block = 10%.
Each small vertical block = 2%.
Each large horizontal block = 1 hour.
Each small horizontal block = 0.2 hours. Key Questions & Answers:

How many blocks represent 10%? → 1 large block (5 small blocks).
How many blocks represent 1%? → Half of a small block.
What is the scale of the horizontal axis? → 1 large block = 1 hour, 1 small block = 0.2 hours.
What percentage is reached at 10 hours? → 85%.
Where does the line begin? → At (0,3%).
Ordered pairs for A & B:

A = (3, 26%)
B = (7, 85%)

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4. Key Takeaways

Always determine the value of each block before reading the graph.
Use small and large blocks to estimate values accurately.
Ordered pairs (x, y) help in identifying key points on the graph.

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