The Fieldwork Report
Weather Enquiry Data Presentation
- Data presentation can take many forms
Primary Data
- Much of the primary data collected in a weather enquiry will be presented in the form of graphs:
- Each type of graph is suitable for particular data sets
- The graphs may have strengths and limitations
- Suitable graphs include:
- Line graphs for changes in temperature spatially or over time
- Bar graphs for precipitation, wind speed
- Rose graph for wind direction and speed
- Scattergraphs to show the relationship between factors such as air pressure and precipitation
- Data presentation may also include maps:
- Sample site location
- Isoline maps to show temperature and precipitation
Worked example
Using the data in Figure 1a, complete Figure 1b below for measurements 1 and 4 (2)
Figure 1a Wind Speed Measurements Gathered by Students
Figure 1b Graph to Show Wind Speed Measurements
- Answer:
- The first bar needs to be just above the 50mph line (each small square is 1mph).. The second bar must be on the line. The bars do not need to be shaded but should be the same width as the other bars.
Completed Figure 1b Graph to Show Wind Speed Measurements
Mark an x in the box on Figure 1b which represents the anomalous wind speed result (1)
- Answer: Number 5 (1) is the anomalous result as it does not fit the pattern of the other measurements
Suggest one explanation for this anomaly (2)
- Answer:
- Human error with the equipment used to measure wind speed (1) measurement was taken in a sheltered area (1) which meant that the wind speed recording was much lower (1) Variation in wind speed over time/readings were not all taken at the same time (1) which led to a much lower result for site 5 (1)
Exam Tip
In the exam you will not be asked to draw an entire graph. However, it is common to be asked to complete an unfinished graph using the data provided. You may also be asked to identify anomalous results or to draw a best fit line on a scattergraph.
- Take your time to ensure that you have marked the data on to the graph accurately
- Use the same style as the data which has already been put on the graph
- Bars on a bar graph should be the same width
- If the dots on a graph are connected by a line you should do the same
Secondary Data
- Any fieldwork should include secondary data as well as primary data
- In a weather enquiry suitable secondary data may include:
- Weather data from the Meteorological Office (Met Office)
- Newspaper articles/websites about the weather event
- Ordnance survey maps to identify sample sites
- Aerial photographs
Worked example
Describe two sources of secondary information that might be useful when planning a microclimate investigation (4)
- Answer:
- The first mark is awarded for the identification of a secondary source
- OS map (1); local Met Office station records (1); local area weather forecast (1); compass directions (1); historic weather diaries (1); newspaper reports for area (1)
- The second mark can be given where purpose of source made clear OS map (1) gives altitude of site (1) compass directions (1) gives aspect of site (1)
- For max marks at least one named source needed (e.g. Met Office, Ordnance Survey, Environment Agency,Severn Trent Water, Google Maps)