Using Mean and MAD to Make Comparisons (IM Grade 6, Unit 8, Lesson 12)
Task
Lesson Purpose In this lesson, students develop their understanding of the mean and MAD as measures of center and spread as well as interpret these values in context. They practice computing the mean and the MAD for distributions, compare distributions with the same MAD but different means, and interpret the mean and MAD in the context of the data (MP2). How Tuva Enhances the lesson Tuva allows all three dot plots to be displayed side by side on the same scale, making it easier for students to compare distributions, means, and mean absolute deviations. Built-in tools let students view the mean and MAD directly on each graph, which supports the lesson synthesis by clearly connecting measures of center and variability to the shape and spread of the data. Tuva also supports access for students with disabilities by providing digital tools to compute and visualize statistics, reducing procedural barriers and supporting visual-spatial processing, conceptual understanding, and organization so students can focus on interpreting and comparing the data.
Which Player Would You Choose? Welcome! In today’s task, you will look at data from basketball players and the number of baskets they made during free-throw practice. You will use measures of center and measures of variability to decide which player you would want on your team. Click Next to Get Started!
Topics and standards: 6-SP-B-5-C, 6-SP-B-5-D, Grade 6, Illustrative Math & Tuva, 6.NS.B.3