Scatter graphs & correlation
Edexcel GCSE Maths revision on Scatter graphs & correlation. Aligned to the Pearson Edexcel GCSE Mathematics 1MA1 specification. This bank has 16 practice questions on this topic.
Sample questions (3 of 16)
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Question 1
What term describes a scatter graph where the points fall roughly along a line sloping upwards from left to right?
- A) Positive correlation
- B) Negative correlation
- C) No linear connection
- D) Zero trend observed
Show answer
Answer: Positive correlation
The correct answer is Positive correlation, which occurs when both variables increase together. Negative correlation would result in a line sloping downwards, while no correlation means the points are scattered randomly.
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Question 2
If a scatter graph shows points clustered very tightly around the line of best fit, what is the strength of the correlation?
- A) Strong correlation
- B) Weak correlation
- C) Zero correlation
- D) Loose correlation
Show answer
Answer: Strong correlation
The correct answer is Strong correlation, as the tightness of the points indicates a high level of predictability between the variables. Weak correlation describes points that are widely spread away from the line of best fit.
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Question 3
Which of these scenarios is most likely to result in a scatter graph displaying negative correlation?
- A) Age of car and resale value
- B) Height of student and shoe size
- C) Hours spent revising and marks
- D) Daily rainfall and umbrella sale
Show answer
Answer: Age of car and resale value
The correct answer is Age of car and resale value, because as a car gets older, its value typically drops. The other options, such as revision time and marks, generally represent positive correlation where both variables rise together.
Want to test yourself on the remaining cards for this topic?
13 more questions on Scatter graphs & correlation — plus mistakes tracking and spaced repetition across the whole Maths spec.