Question

describe how the graph below is deceptive. mikes grade point average
0 3.1 3.15 3.2
first quarter second quarter
how would you change it so that it is not misleading?
a. it appears that mikes grade point average for the second quarter is 3 times his first quarter average. change the intervals on the vertical scale so they are consistent.
b. it appears that mikes grade point average for the second quarter was significantly larger than his first quarter average. change the width of the bars to display the correct scale.
c. it appears that mikes grade point average for the second quarter is 2 times his first quarter average. change the intervals on the horizontal scale so they are consistent.
d. there is no way to change the graph so it is not misleading.

Explanation:

The vertical scale has inconsistent intervals. This makes the height of the second - quarter bar seem disproportionately large compared to the first - quarter bar, giving a false impression of the difference in grade point averages. To correct this, the intervals on the vertical scale should be made consistent.

Answer:

b. It appears that Mike's grade point average for the second quarter was significantly larger than his first quarter average. Change the intervals on the vertical scale so they are consistent.