Comparing measurements
Describe, interpret, and compare distributions of a single variable using appropriate measures of central tendency (mean, median, mode) and spread (range), including the effect of outliers
Suggested ages 11–13
Evidence of understanding
- Calculate mean, median, and mode for a data set and explain when each is most appropriate
- Find the range of a data set and explain how an outlier affects the mean versus the median
- Compare two data sets using their averages and ranges to draw conclusions
Assessment prompt
If Comparing measurements had the test scores of a whole class, could they find the mean, median, and range, and explain what each tells you about how the class performed?
Standards alignment
Informally assess the degree of visual overlap of two numerical data distributions
Common Core State Standards for Mathematics · 7
Use measures of center and measures of variability to draw informal comparative inferences
Common Core State Standards for Mathematics · 7
Describe and Compare Distributions
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 3