How Tall? Describing Data with Statistical Plots
Recommended for grades 9–12.
Introduction
How tall are students in your class? Is there anyone especially tall? Or short? What is the average height of your classmates? One way to answer these questions is to measure the height of everyone in the class and then analyze the data statistically.
An easy way to measure everyone’s height rapidly is to use the Motion Detector. You can fasten the detector above the floor, and students can stand under it to quickly record their heights. Once you have a set of heights for your classmates, you will plot the results using a special statistical plot called a box plot.
Objectives
- Measure the heights of your classmates using a Motion Detector.
- Describe the height data using statistical concepts.
- Describe the height data using a box plot.
Sensors and Equipment
This experiment requires each of the following Vernier sensors and equipment (unless otherwise noted):
Additional Requirements
You may also need an interface and software for data collection. What do I need for data collection?
Standards Correlations
See all standards correlations for Real-World Math Made Easy »
Included in the Lab Book
Vernier lab books include a CD with word-processing files of the student instructions, essential teacher information, suggested answers, sample data and graphs, and more.