Data Questions and Sampling
Ages 16–18Difficulty adapts to you
Data Questions and Sampling
A statistical investigation starts with a question, a population, variables, a sampling method, and a plan for recording data. A sample should represent the population as fairly as possible. Convenience or leading samples can create bias.
Your goals
- ✓You can turn a real question into measurable variables and a fair sample.
- ✓You can use Data Questions and Sampling, model correctly.
- ✓You can use the definitions, units, assumptions, and examples to check your answer.
Words to know
- Data Questions and Sampling:
- Turn a real question into measurable variables and a fair sample.
- model:
- A rule or representation used to describe a situation and make a prediction.
Examples
- 1To estimate travel time for a school, sample learners from different classes and days rather than asking only one friendship group.
- 2Record a numerical variable such as minutes and a category such as transport type separately.
Check these
- • Do not skip the meaning of a term or give a result without explaining what it means.
- • Keep every number, symbol, label, and unit in its correct place.
- • Show enough working to check how you reached your answer.
Helpful habits
- • Read the whole question before choosing what to do.
- • Show one clear step at a time and check each step.
- • If you are stuck, draw a model, try smaller numbers, or revisit the example.
Now try your own
Create your own data questions and sampling example, solve it, and explain how you checked it.
Professor Wise Owl
Wisdom & Understanding“A wise learner asks questions. Be curious!”