Analyzing Statistical Results

Lesson 3-8Lesson 3-8

Pg. # 108-110Pg. # 108-110

CA Content StandardsStatistics, Data Analysis, and Probability 2.3***:

I can analyze data and explain why the way in which the question was asked might have influenced the results obtained.

Statistics, Data Analysis, and Probability 2.4***:

I can identify claims based on statistical data and, in simple cases, evaluate the validity of the claims.

Vocabulary: NEUTRAL

Not aligned with, supporting, or favoring either side

Unbiased

Objective

Evaluate the effect of questions on statistical results.

Math Link: You know how sampling techniques affect statistical results. Now you will learn how wording of questions affects these results.

The way questions are worded can influence the results of the

survey.NOT FAIR: Are you in favor of students being

given the opportunity to use new athletic equipment?

NOT FAIR: Do you think the school should spend its limited funds on more athletic equipment?

FAIR: Do you support or oppose the purchase of new school athletic equipment?

Question C is neutral and a fair question. It doesn’t persuade someone to answer one way or the other.

Select the question you think is most fair.

Do you favor or oppose requiring drivers to pass a basic driving test in order to renew their licenses?

Should drivers be forced to prove their driving competence every time they need to renew their licenses?

Are you in favor of ensuring that the drivers on your roadways are skilled enough to drive?

Identify the claim made. Then tell whether the claim is

justified by the statistics.

65% of 6th graders surveyed prefer pop music to country music. Casey, a 6th grader, probably prefers pop.

Claim: Casey probably prefers pop music to country music; claim is justified because more than 50% of 6th graders prefer pop.

The Moral of the Story:

When analyzing statistical data, it is important to determine how accurate the findings are. To collect data that are unbiased, or fair, questions should be asked in a neutral way.