Hypothesis
Dandelions are excellent competitors. They grow outwards overshadowing other plants. Cutting grass should help dandelions because the leaves are too low to cut.

Collecting Data
Test this idea by using a line transect and quadrat.

1. Lay out a line of string from an uncut area onto a cut area of grass
2. Place a 0.5m long quadrat along the string at one end
3. You can use 50cm rulers to form a quadrat
4. Count the number of dandelions and record it
5. Move the quadrat 0.5m along the string
6. Work along the string recording as you go
7. Now work along the other side of the string to collect a second set of results

* quadrat: an area of vegetation selected at random for study

Analysing
Use a spreadsheet like this one to analyse your results.

• Calculate the density of dandelions in plants/m²
• Calculate the mean density at each position along the string
• Draw a bar graph to show the distribution

Hint: Type =D2*4 into cell E2 to work out the mean. Copy this formula down column E.

Drawing Conclusions
Describe the pattern in your results.
Does it agree with your hypothesis?