Foundations

Math and Pre-Calculus 10 Unit

5
5A Interpreting Graphs
By the end of this lesson I will be able to:
* Analyze graphs of real world situations
* Create graphs given real world situations

Graphs can be a powerful tool to represent and describe information.

Example: To the right is a graph of the cost of hiring a plumber to
come to your house. The plumber has an initial call out charge and
then adds his hourly rate.

Vertical Axis:

Horizontal Axis:

How much does it cost just for the call out charge?

If the plumber works for 1 hour, how much is the total cost?

What is the total cost for 2 hours of work?

How much does the plumber charge per hour?

What is the cost for hiring the plumber for 9 hours?

Example: Johnny decides to go on a trip with his motorcycle and leaves from school. Describe what is
happening in each line segment.
Graph Trip
AB

BC

CD

DE

EF

FG

1
Example: On the left, the graph shows a scuba diver and the depth below sea level versus time. On the
right, the graph shows a hot air balloon taking off from the ground versus time. Describe a possible
scenario for each of the following graphs.
































Sketching a graphs from given information.
Example: Sam walks his normal pace to the corner store. On the way he meets a friend and stops to talk
for a few minutes. He then continues on his way to the store at his normal pace. Arriving a the store, Sam
buys his groceries. He realizes he has taken to long and walks faster back home then he id when going to
the store.
Sketch a graph of the Sam’s trip to the store with distance versus time.