Content Area: Math

 

Index: 4.4A Grade 12 CPI 2

 

Standard: 4.4 - Data Analysis, Probability, and Discrete Mathematics

 

Strand: A - Data Analysis

 

Cumulative Progress Indicator: 2 -  The student will evaluate the use of data in real-world contexts

·        Accuracy and reasonableness of conclusions drawn

·        Bias in conclusions drawn (e.g., influence of how data is displayed)

·        Statistical claims based on sampling

 

Grade: 12

 

Sample Activities:

 

·        After reading the chapter on sampling in the book How to Lie With Statistics by Darryl Huff, students bring in ads, graphs, charts, and articles from newspapers which all make statements or claims allegedly based on data. Students examine the articles for information about the sample and identify those claims which may have little or no substantiation. They also discuss how the sample populations chosen could have influenced the outcomes.

 

·        Students take statements such as "50% of the students failed the test," and "4 out of 5 dentists recommend" and discuss what data they would need to know in order to judge if the conclusions were reasonable. How many students took the test? How many dentists were queried? How were the students or dentists selected? What factors can be identified which would bias the results?