Line graphs
Line graphs show how data changes over time or space. The line graph above displays the changes in world population growth over time. The x-axis shows time or distance. When describing a line graph, you should include: -
- A trend or change over time.
- The pattern of the line showing an increase or decrease.
- The rate of change, shown by the steepness of the line.
Question
Looking at the graph above, describe, in detail, world population growth between 1800 and 2100.
Hints
- split the graph into different sections to identify patterns
- quote years and figures to support your points
- use descriptive terms like moderate increase, sharp or rapid increase, sharp or rapid decrease
- identify the overall trend from 1800 -2100 e.g has the population increased or decreased in this time period?
World population has grown since 1800 and it is predicted to grow until the year 2020 (1 mark for trend).
World population moderately increased from 1,000 million people in 1800 to 2600 million in approximately 1950 (1 mark) before sharply rising to 7,000 million in 2010 (1 mark).
The highest rate of increase was between 1950 and 2020 when the population rapidly increased by 4,500 million people (1 mark).
After 2040 it is expected to sharply decrease from 8,000 million to approximately 4,800 million people by the year 2120 (1 mark).
