Data Analysis: Introduction to Measurement, Error, and Outliers

In this lesson, students measure and compare the rate of a falling object (a penny) at different heights to learn about statistical error.

Context for Use

Project EXTREMES lessons were intended to be stand alone lessons.

Ruler

Scale Ruler Photo credit: filmingilman

Goals Header
What Students Will Do

Students will be able to define and apply the statistical concepts of measurement, error, and outliers.

Materials

User note: To make an editable copy of the teaching materials in Google Drive, select File > “Make a copy”. This will make a copy for you to save to your own drive and edit as you see fit.

Description

Part 1 – Engagement & Exploration (15 minutes) Errors in Data Collection

Students collect and share data to explore the quality of their data and learn about error  in data collection.

Part 2 – Explanation (15 minutes) Variation in Data Collection

Students continue the exploration of the concept of variation in data.

Part 3 – Elaboration & Evaluation (15 minutes) Penny Drop Data Analysis 

Students decide on a method to analyze class data and explain why. They discuss the different types of error in data collection. 

 

Illustration of two people high-fiving in a work environment

Get involved and stay up-to-date with CIRES CEEE.