Online Graph 1

I created this graph using a spreadsheet in Google Documents. I put my data into the spreadsheet and then created a chart based on the data of WV 4th grade math score averages vs. the national averages. After I labeled everything on the chart, I saved the image on my desktop. Then, I added the image into my blog by clicking on "add image" in this post.

After making this graph, it surprised me how close WV was to the National Average. For some reason, I always thought we did worse in math than most states. From the year 2000-2007, the National Average seems to be increasing; however, the WV state average seems to be very close to the National Average with 5-10 point differences. In the year 2000, WV was only 1 point under the National Average. In 2003, WV was 3 points under the National Average. However, in 2005 there was a little larger gap with WV being 6 points under the National Average. In addition, in 2007, WV was again 6 points under the National Average. These aren't terrible gaps, but if they continue to increase... that would not be good for WV in Mathematics. WV's math scores seem to be decreasing from the National Average as the years go on; and if we're not careful... WV's math scores could decrease even more. It was good that we were close in 2000 and 2003, but we need to strive to rise above the National Average.