Graphical Skills: Charts, Graphs & Diagrams

At GCSE you are expected to construct, read and interpret a wide range of graphs, charts and diagrams. These skills are tested across all three exam papers, not just the skills paper. This lesson covers every type of graphical presentation you need to know for AQA GCSE Geography.

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General Rules for Constructing Graphs

Whatever type of graph you draw, always follow these rules:

1. Title — give the graph a clear, descriptive title
2. Axes — label both axes with the variable name and the unit (e.g. "Temperature (°C)")
3. Scale — choose a scale that uses most of the graph paper and goes up in easy intervals (e.g. 2, 5, 10, 20)
4. Plotting — plot points accurately using a sharp pencil
5. Neatness — use a ruler for straight lines and bar outlines

Exam Tip: If you are asked to complete a graph that is partly drawn for you, make sure you match the scale and style already used. Do not start a new scale.

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Bar Charts