A discrete unit: A single, separate, countable item.
What does this mean? It means the item cannot be divided into smaller parts without losing its identity as a unit.
We count things that are discrete.
A collection of discrete units will: consist of distinct, separate items.
For example: number of students in a class, number of books on a shelf.
The graph of a Discrete function will be made up of coordinate pairs that do not connect together.
A continuous whole: An unbroken, smooth quantity that can take any value within a range.
Consider the distance from A and B.
There is nothing to skip. As we go from A to B, the line flows without a break.
Since the length from A to B is continuous, we could take any part we please, for example: half the distance, a quarter, or any fraction.
Therefore, we say that Continuous functions are for: measuring quantities that can vary smoothly.
The graph of a Continuous function will be made up of coordinate pairs that do connect together to form a line or curve.
Which of these are continuous (C) and which are discrete (D)?
a) A stack of coins: D
b) The distance from here to the Moon: C
c) A bag of apples: D
d) Applesauce: C
e) 60 minutes: C
f) Pearls on a necklace: D
g) The area of a circle: C
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of discrete vs continuous data worksheet.
