Bivariate data is data made of two paired variables: the independent variable x and the dependent variable y. We can decide if they have a linear or nonlinear relationship.
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Linear — fits y = mx + b. The graph is a straight line.
y = 2x + 3 y = −4x + 9 y = 6
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Nonlinear — x is squared, cubed, in an exponent, or in a denominator. The graph curves.
y = x² y = 2ˣ y = 12/x
Make a Prediction with y = mx + b
Once you have a linear equation, plug in an x-value to predict y — just like the lesson video!
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Start with the equation: y = 2x + 3
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Can you predict the cost for 4.5 miles? Substitute:
y = 2(4.5) + 3
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Solve: y = 9 + 3 = $12 — that’s your prediction!
How to Play
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Linear or Nonlinear — Look at the equation and decide if it makes a straight line.
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Make a Prediction — Use y = mx + b with a real-world scenario to predict the answer.
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Calculator — Tap the gold calculator button any time. Try it in your head first — then verify!
