The table and scatterplot show the additional plant growth measured each day for particular days.

Question

Which two points should the trend line go through to best represent the data given in this scatterplot?
Time
(days)
Growth
(inches)
2
1
3
1.5
4
2.75
5
2
6
2
8
3
10
1.75

mc006-1.jpg
(2, 1) and (3, 1.5)
(2, 1) and (5, 2)
(6, 2) and (8, 2)
(6, 2) and (10,1.75)

Answer 1

To determine which two points the trend line should go through to best represent the given data, we should look for points that are roughly in line with the overall trend of the data points in the scatterplot.

1. (2, 1) and (3, 1.5): These points are relatively close together and show an upward trend.
2. (2, 1) and (5, 2): This option covers a wider range and retains a general upward trend.
3. (6, 2) and (8, 2): These two points are on the higher side but represent a plateau (no increase).
4. (6, 2) and (10, 1.75): This option shows a decrease in growth and does not represent an upward trend.

The best option is (2, 1) and (5, 2), as these two points show a clear upward trend over a wider range of days.