Visualizing
Linear
Regression with
Interactive Tools
This presentation explores the power of visualization and
interactive tools in understanding the concept of linear
regression. By providing hands-on experiences, we'll delve
into the impact of slope and intercept, analyze residuals, and
reinforce the underlying mathematical principles.
Introduction to Linear
Regression
1 What is Linear Regression?
A statistical method to model the relationship
between two variables, finding the best-fitting straight
line through the data points.
2 Importance of Visualization
Visualizing the concept helps learners understand the
idea of "best fit" and how the slope and intercept
affect the line.
Linear Regression Formula
The Formula The Goal
y = mx + c Minimize the error (residual) between the
predicted values y^and the actual values y.
Where y is the dependent variable, x is the
independent variable, m is the slope, and c is the
intercept.
Importance of Fit in
Linear Regression
What is a Good Fit?
A line that minimizes the sum of squared residuals, the
distance between actual and predicted values.
Residuals
The difference between actual and predicted values,
which the model aims to minimize.
Interactive Tools for Linear Regression
Desmos Excel
Free online graphing calculator that allows manual Spreadsheet software with built-in tools to plot data
adjustment of slope and intercept. and adjust trendlines.
Demo: Using Desmos for
Manual Adjustments
1 Enter Data
Students can input their own data points into the
Desmos interface.
2 Adjust Slope
Use the slope slider to see how changing the tilt of the
line affects the fit.
3 Adjust Intercept
Adjust the intercept slider to shift the line up or down
and observe the impact.
Demo: Using Excel for
Trendlines
Input Data
Students can enter their data into an Excel spreadsheet.
Plot Scatter
Use Excel's built-in tools to create a scatter plot of the
data points.
Adjust Trendline
Manually adjust the linear trendline to see how it
changes the fit.
Key Concepts Students Will Learn
Visual Impact of Slope Understanding Residuals Hands-On Learning
and Intercept
How residuals are impacted by Students can see how their
How adjusting the slope different lines, and why the adjustments improve or worsen
changes the tilt of the line, and best-fit line minimizes residuals. the fit, reinforcing the
how adjusting the intercept underlying concepts.
shifts the line up or down.
Conclusion
By leveraging interactive tools and dynamic visualizations,
students can develop a deeper understanding of linear
regression. This hands-on approach empowers learners to
explore the impact of model parameters and reinforce the
underlying mathematical principles.
