The pervasive use of visual representations in textbooks, curricula, and assessments underscores their importance in K-12 science education. For example, visual representations figure prominently in the recent publication of the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS Lead States in Next generation science standards: for states, by states.…

Examines the difficulties 19 preservice elementary and middle school teachers experienced when creating and interpreting graphs in which speed is one of the variables. Identifies four cognitive obstacles held by the preservice teachers and provides excerpts of their graphical constructions and verbal interpretations. Discusses potential causes for…

Graphs of objects in motion are frequently used in introductory high school or college physics courses since they offer a valuable alternative to verbal and algebraic descriptions by offering students another way of manipulating the developing concepts. If graphs are to be a valuable tool for students, then the level of the students' graphing…