Activity Overview
Using the USA TODAY Infograph, "More students apply
early," students will explore scatter plots and independent and dependent variables. Students will determine a best-fit regression model for the real-life data set and then use the model to make a prediction. The meaning of slope (rate of change) and y-intercept will be explored in the context of the problem. Students will find the mean value of the number of students applying under the early decision plan.
Before the Activity
Setup your TI-Navigator System
Make sure you are familiar with the following functions: Send to Class, Collect from Class, Screen Capture, Quick Poll and Activity Center
Your students will need a TI-83 Plus or TI-84 Plus graphing calculator, either working in pairs or individually
Download the attached activity resource files from all three sections to your computer
Recommendations:
Multimedia Projector for sharing the Activity Center, Quick Polls and Screen Captures with your students
TI Keyboards for students to easily answer the LearningCheck™ assessment questions
During the Activity
Students will:
Create a scatter plot of a data set using appropriate values for the independent and dependent variables
Explore the linear model for a data set and explain what slope and y-intercept mean
Find the mean (average) value for a data set
Directions
Distribute the Student Edition PDF file to your class
Follow the activity procedures outlined in the Teacher document
You may use the Graphic PDF file to display a large image of the USA TODAY graphic during the activity
After the Activity
Access your students' understanding by using Send to Class, LearningCheck™ App and Class Analysis.