Activity Overview
Students will use the TI-Nspire to "hand calculate" the sample Standard Deviation using the spreadsheet and calculate it again using the OneVar function and compare the two ways.
Before the Activity
A discussion as to what standard deviation is and how it is used in data analysis may be needed.
Make copies of the CalcStandDevSW.doc (or .pdf) for each student. If the students are doing this as individuals, the CalcStandDev.tns file will need to be transferred to each of the student TI-Nspires.
During the Activity
Use the CalculatingStandardDeviation.doc (or .pdf) to help you lead the students through this activity. The CalcStandDevans.tns file is attached for you to look at the finished product the students should end up with.