Activity Overview
Students will create two box and whisker plots of the data in the USA TODAY Snapshot®. They will calculate central tendencies for both sets of data and compare the two sets of data by analyzing the differences in the box and whisker plots.
Before the Activity
If you are using the TI-Navigator System™ with the TI-73 Explorer™ you will need the attached .pdf file.
See the attached Teacher Edition PDF file for notes and guidelines for this activity. The Technology Guide PDF file includes step-by-step calculator instructions with screen shots.
If you are using the TI-Navigator™ Classroom Learning System, see the TI-Navigator Basic Skills Guide PDF file for information on how the system can be integrated into your activity.
During the Activity
Students will:
Gather data from a graphical source.
Calculate mean, median, and mode for each set of data.
Create a box and whisker graph for each set of data.
Directions:
Distribute the Student Edition PDF file to your class.
Follow the activity procedures outlined in the student document.
You may use the Transparency PDF file to display a large image of the USA TODAY graphic during the activity.
After the Activity
Distribute the assessment questions or send the attached LearningCheck™ assessment to your class to gauge student understanding of the concepts presented in the activity.
If you are using the TI-73 Explorer™ with this activity and do not have access to LearningCheck™, the assessment is also included in the Student Edition.