Correlations and Scatterplots
Correlations and Scatterplots
Correlations and Scatterplots
Correlations
A quick review:
l Every correlation has a direction (positive or
negative):
l + correlation: high scores on one variable are
associated with high scores on another variable.
l - correlation: high scores on one variable are
associated with low scores on the other
variable.
l Every correlation has a magnitude or strength:
l The closer the correlation coefficient is to +1.00
or -1.00, the stronger it is.
l The closer the correlation coefficient is to 0.00,
the weaker it is.
Calculating Pearson’s r
StudyHrs = average number of hours spent per week studying for 209
GPA = grade-point average earned in 209 at the end of the quarter
Step 1: Select the cell where you want your r
value to appear (you might want to label it).
Step 2: Click on the function wizard button.
Step 3: Search for and select PEARSON.
Step 4: For Array1, select all the values under StudyHrs.
For Array2, select all the values under GPA.
Step 5: That’s it! Once you have your r value,
don’t forget to round to 2 decimal places.
Knowledge check: What does the r value of 0.88 tell you about
the strength and direction of the correlation between StudyHrs
and GPA?
Scatterplots
l A scatterplot is an excellent way to visually
display the relationship (correlation) between
two variables.
l Each point on the scatterplot represents an
individual’s data on the two variables.