INST0065 Data Visualization and GIS
Assessment 1, 2021-22
Submission deadline
The assignment should be submitted by 3pm (UK) February 25th, 2022
Assignment
For a data visualization of your choice, show and explain the content of that visualization.
You should include in your answer a description of:
• What it shows or purports to show
• The source of the visualization and of the underlying data on which it is based
• What methods it employs, using the terms outlined by Few (2004)1 including
– Visual attributes
– 'Quantitative messages'
• Any notable patterns or features in the visualization, and where appropriate potential
explanatory factors for those patterns
• Where relevant, any historical or social significance of the visualization
You should also include a critique of the visualization, including comments on the strengths and
weaknesses of the visualization, potentially covering: ease of understanding, the visualization’s
objectivity or subjectivity, and assumptions that might be embedded in the data.
Word limit
This assignment has an upper limit of 1000 words; there is no permitted margin above this count.
The word limit does not include bibliographies, image captions or footnotes.
Notes
The visualization should be selected on an individual basis.

1
Few, S. (2004). Eenie, Meenie, Minie, Moe: Selecting the Right Graph for Your Message.
http://www.perceptualedge.com/articles/ie/the_right_graph.pdf

In case of broken links, see:
https://moodle.ucl.ac.uk/pluginfile.php/3409332/course/section/609521/the_right_graph.pdf
The term ‘data visualization’ is broadly understood to include a wide variety of methods, forms and
means of delivery. You are advised to select a visualization that will be straightforward to describe in
terms of the vocabulary of Few (2004)
Grade descriptors
A (70% +)
Good description of the content of the visualization covering all points and showing clear evidence
of independent critical thinking. Concepts explained well and clearly indicating thorough knowledge
of discussed topics. Three or more plausible points raised in the critique of the visualization.
Clearly presented with a full, consistent, accurate and properly laid out bibliography and full
references to the visualization and source data.
B (60-69%)
Good description of the content of the visualization covering the major points and showing some
evidence of some evidence of analytical thinking and curiosity. Concepts appropriately identified. At
least two plausible points raised in the critique of the visualization.
Acceptable level of literacy and bibliographical citation including the visualization.
C (50-59%)
Adequate description of the visualization given for the reader to have a basic understanding of its
content. At least one plausible point raised in the critique of the visualization.
Concepts explained to an acceptable standard but may evidence some of the following: lack of
depth, poor expression, little evidence of self-directed thought or curiosity, incomplete or poorly
constructed bibliography, low standard of literacy.
D (49% or below)
Unacceptable. May indicate significant ignorance or misunderstanding of the chosen visualization,
contain largely irrelevant or erroneous material, or rely heavily on other people's work. Where
plagiarism is detected, appropriate action will be taken in line with UCL regulations