Data Analysis to Hypothesis Testing

by Mrs. von Stein

Introduction | The Task | Process and Resources | Evaluation | Conclusion

Introduction

The collection and interpretation of data are vital steps in decision making in research, business, industry, government, and politics, as well as in our personal lives. Often, it is necessary to analyze a limited amount of data.  By utilizing some basic concepts of  probability it is possible to calculate the probability that a given outcome will occur in specified numbers of trials.   In this series of three projects, you will assume the role of  statisticians. 

The Task

You will utilize and learn about the following:  

• Data Collection  
•  Data Presentation
• Data Analysis
• Binomial Distribution
• Variance and Sample Size Dependence
• Confidence Intervals
• Hypothesis Testing

After completing the three projects you will have learned to make valid statistical comparisons, to understand and apply basic concepts of probability as well as to develop and evaluate inferences and predictions that are based on data.

Process and Resources

1. First you'll be assigned to work with a partner. 
2. You will conduct 3 different projects. Project 1.  Project 2.  Project 3.
3. You will develop and conduct a survey.
4. Visit gopher://cs.muochio.edu:70/11/Data%20Series/U.S.%20Population%20Series  for average population of the U.S. for decades from 1800-1810 to 1960-1970. 
5. Some useful EXCEL commands 
6. Visit http://www.census.gov/population/www/index.html for current census data.

Teacher Notes

Evaluation

There are several components to this project.  Please see the rubric for how you will be graded.

Conclusion

Put a couple of sentences here that summarize what they will have accomplished or learned.

Created by Jan von Stein
The Masters School, Dobbs Ferry, NY
Grade: 9-12   Subject: Mathematics
Standards Addressed: Statistics & Probability
Date:  September 26, 2000
Email: vonsteinj@worldnet.att.net