GCSE MATHS • HIGHER TIER
Distance-Time Graphs Made Simple
Interpret journeys, recognise graph shapes, compare speeds and calculate speed from distance-time information.
Clear method
Exam practice
Worked proofs
Distance-Time Graphs in Four Moves
1
Read
Check the axes, scales and units.
2
Interpret
Identify whether the object is moving, stopped, faster or slower.
3
Check
Relate the answer back to the graph and journey.
4
Calculate
Multiply the circumference by the angle fraction.
What You’ll Learn
Understand the Axes
Know that time is on the x-axis and distance is on the y-axis.
Interpret Graph Shapes
Recognise constant speed, stationary periods and different speeds.
Compare Journeys
Use steepness to compare speeds.
Calculate Speed
Apply Speed = Distance ÷ Time.
Use Gradient
Understand that gradient represents speed on a distance-time graph.
Key Rules
Understanding the Axes
Horizontal Axis (x-axis) = Time
Vertical Axis (y-axis) = Distance
Always check the units used on each axis.
Worked Proof: Distance-Time Graphs
Real-Life Applications
Distance-time graphs are used in transport, GPS systems, logistics, athletics and scientific investigations.
More Worked Examples
1
Reading Values from a Distance-Time Graph
Students should be able to identify how far an object has travelled at a particular time.
After 2 hours, the graph shows 60 km.
2
What Does a Straight Upward Line Mean?
A straight upward line means the object is travelling at a constant speed.
A graph rises steadily from 0 km to 100 km over 4 hours.
3
What Does a Steeper Line Mean?
The steeper the graph, the faster the speed.
Graph A is steeper than Graph B.
4
What Does a Horizontal Line Mean?
A horizontal line means the distance is not changing. The object is stationary.
A graph is flat between 2 pm and 3 pm.
- Common GCSE Mistakes
- Distance vs speed: Do not confuse the distance travelled with the speed of travel.
- Units: Always check and include the correct units.
- Scales: Read the graph scale carefully before taking values.
- Horizontal lines: Remember that horizontal means stationary.
- Speed calculation: Use distance ÷ time and check the arithmetic.
- Exam Tips
- Check both axes first: Identify time, distance, scales and units.
- Read graph shapes carefully: Steep, shallow and horizontal lines have different meanings.
- Use the speed formula: Speed = Distance ÷ Time.
- Remember gradient = speed: A steeper line represents a faster speed.
- Describe the journey in context: State whether the object is moving or stopped.
Skills Used in Distance-Time Graphs
Reading Graphs
Plotting Coordinates
Speed Calculations
Gradient
Graph Interpretation
Real-Life Graphs
Speed-Time Graphs
Units and Scales
Ready to Practise?
Printable Worksheet
Download and print practice questions with answers.
Interactive Quiz
Test your knowledge with instant feedback and hints.
Exam-Style Questions
Timed questions to build confidence for the real exam.
Watch the Distance-Time Graphs Tutorial
Step-by-step walkthroughs of Distance-Time Graphs with clear methods and exam tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
It shows how distance travelled changes over time.
Time is normally plotted on the horizontal x-axis.
It means the object is travelling at a constant speed.
It means the object is stationary because its distance is not changing.
A steeper line represents a faster speed.
The gradient of a distance-time graph represents speed.
Use Speed = Distance ÷ Time.