SAT Math: Function Models vs Scatterplots
19+ practice questions in Praczo
The concept, explained
- 1
The SAT often plots real data on a scatterplot and draws a curve (like an exponential or quadratic model) through it.
- 2
Questions ask you to compare an actual data point (the dot) with the model's predicted value (the line/curve at that same x-value).
- 3
If the dot is ABOVE the curve, the model underestimated the actual value.
- 4
If the dot is BELOW the curve, the model overestimated the actual value.
- ✗ Plugging the x-value into the equation to find the "actual" value (the equation only gives the PREDICTED value).
- ✗ Confusing "overestimate" and "underestimate" relative to the line.
SAT-style practice
A scatterplot has a line of best fit. At x=10, the data point sits at y=45. The equation of the line gives y=50 at x=10. Did the model over-predict or under-predict the actual value?
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