Lesson 11
Decisions, Decisions
These materials, when encountered before Algebra 1, Unit 1, Lesson 11 support success in that lesson.
Lesson Narrative
The mathematical purpose of this lesson is for students to compare data sets, and choose the best scenario based on measures of variability as well as measures of center. This lesson connects to previous work because students have already been introduced to measures of centers and measures of variability and how to use these to describe data sets. In the associated Algebra lesson, students compare situations with different measures of variability to select a preferred option. The work in this lesson highlights the importance of variability when analyzing data. Students construct viable arguments (MP3) when they explain their reasoning behind a choice of situations using statistics from data given.
Technology isn't required for this lesson, but there are opportunities for students to choose to use statistical technology to solve problems. We recommend making technology available.
Learning Goals
Teacher Facing
- Apply understanding of variability to real-world scenarios.
- Compare two sets of data.
Student Facing
- Let’s compare data sets.