Presenting Data (Graphs, Maps, Tables)

Types of Data Presentation

In geography fieldwork, presenting data clearly is essential to communicate findings effectively. Common methods include graphs, maps, and tables.

Graphs

• Bar graphs show comparisons between categories using rectangular bars. They are useful for discrete data like counting the number of shops in different areas.
• Line graphs display continuous data over time or distance, ideal for showing changes such as river velocity along its course.
• Scatter graphs plot individual data points to identify relationships or correlations between two variables, for example, rainfall and vegetation density.

Maps

• Choropleth maps use shading or colour intensity to represent data values across areas, such as population density by ward.
• Proportional symbol maps use symbols (e.g., circles) sized according to data values, like the number of tourists visiting different UK cities.

Tables

Tables organise numerical or textual data systematically in rows and columns. They make it easier to compare raw data and spot patterns before graphing.

Interpreting Graphs and Tables

Understanding how to read and interpret data presentations is vital for drawing conclusions in fieldwork.

Reading Scales and Axes

Always check the scales on the axes of graphs to understand the range and intervals. Axes should be labelled with units (e.g., metres, %, $^{\circ}\mathrm{C}$).

Identifying Trends and Patterns

Look for:

• Increasing or decreasing trends: e.g., river velocity increasing downstream.
• Peaks or troughs: highest or lowest values that may indicate significant features.
• Clusters or outliers: points that group together or stand apart, showing consistency or anomalies.

Using Averages and Percentages

Averages summarise data sets:

• Mean: sum of values divided by number of values.
• Median: middle value when data is ordered.
• Mode: most frequent value.

Percentages help compare parts of a whole, such as the percentage of land use types in an urban area.

For instance, if a table shows 5 measurements of soil pH: 6.2, 6.5, 6.3, 6.4, 6.6, the mean pH is:

$\frac{6.2 + 6.5 + 6.3 + 6.4 + 6.6}{5} = \frac{31}{5} = 6.4$

Using Maps in Fieldwork

Maps are essential for showing spatial data collected during fieldwork.

Map Symbols and Keys

Symbols represent features like buildings, rivers, or vegetation. A clear key explains what each symbol means, ensuring the map is easy to understand.

Locating Features Using Grid References

Grid references pinpoint exact locations on a map:

• Four-figure grid references locate a 1 km square.
• Six-figure grid references locate a 100 m square for more precision.

For example, a six-figure grid reference of 123456 means eastings 123 and northings 456.

Representing Spatial Data Visually

Maps can show patterns such as population density or land use by using shading (choropleth) or sized symbols (proportional symbols).

Presenting Fieldwork Results

Effective presentation of fieldwork results helps communicate findings clearly and links back to enquiry questions.

Choosing Appropriate Presentation Methods

Select graphs, maps, or tables based on the type of data and what you want to show:

• Use line graphs for changes over distance or time.
• Use bar graphs for comparing categories.
• Use maps for spatial patterns.
• Use tables for detailed numerical data.

Clear Labelling and Titles

All data presentations must have:

• Descriptive titles explaining what the data shows.
• Labels on axes or map features, including units (e.g., $\mathrm{m}$, $\%$, $^\circ\mathrm{C}$).
• Keys or legends for maps and symbols.

Linking Data Presentation to Enquiry Questions

Data should be presented to directly address the enquiry question. For example, if investigating how footpath erosion changes with distance from a river, use a line graph showing erosion depth against distance.