CMPT 880 Writing Assignment 2

This assignment asks you to show your skills in constructing charts.

Due date: Wednesday, November 19, 4:00pm

What to do

For each of the three datasets given below, follow the methods discussed in class to choose an appropriate chart type, choose appropriate data, and create the chart. Note that you do not have to include all of the data, but you cannot just choose data randomly - you have to 'make a point' with your chart. Also, you may need to recode the data in some way to make your point best.

For each chart, include a figure caption that would be appropriate for a research paper.

For each chart, include a statement justifying your selection of data, chart type, and presentation (that is, state how your chart helps you to make a particular point).

You may not use the same type of chart (e.g., bar chart, line chart) more than once.

Dataset 1:
Household expenditures in European countries

Dataset 2:
Annual Resort Revenues
Hawaiian Club - 1993: 450000
Hawaiian Club - 1994: 480000
Hawaiian Club - 1995: 390000
Bahamas Beach - 1993: 230000
Bahamas Beach - 1994: 230000
Bahamas Beach - 1995: 310000
French Riviera - 1993: 205000
French Riviera - 1994: 204000
French Riviera - 1995: 200000

Dataset 3:
Average fuel efficiency, MPG
England, large cars: 12.2
England, small cars: 18.6
Japan, large cars: 18.7
Japan, small cars: 28.6
Germany, large cars: 14.5
Germany, small cars: 22.6
U.S., large cars: 9.5
U.S., small cars: 17.9

Notes:

  • Put one chart (and explanations) per page
  • Print the assignment in black and white

    Marks:

  • The assignment will be worth 3 marks of the 25 allotted in 880 for writing
  • Marks will be given for:
  • Following the instructions above
  • Selecting appropriate chart types
  • Constructing charts according to presentation rules discussed in class
  • Clear captions
  • Good explanations of what point your chart is trying to make, and whether your chart actually does make that point.

    How to hand in:

  • Please hand in a printed version of your paragraph at 880 class.
  • Make sure your name and nsid are written at the top of the assignment.