Calculating the mean
I can calculate the mean from data presented in a frequency table and different graphs.
Calculating the mean
I can calculate the mean from data presented in a frequency table and different graphs.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The mean can be calculated from a line graph.
- The mean can be calculated from an ungrouped frequency table.
- The mean can be calculated from a bar chart.
Keywords
Frequency - The frequency is the number of times an event occurs; or the number of individuals (people, animals etc.) with some specific property.
Data - Data are a collection of information.
Mean - The sum of the values divided by the number of values. It is a measure of central tendency representing the average of the values.
Measure of central tendency - A summary measure that attempts to describe a whole set of data with a single value that represents the middle of the distribution.
Common misconception
Pupils may divide by how many groups/bars there are, instead of the total frequency.
By reminding students frequently that averages need to give a 'typical' value of the data set, ask them to sense check their mean value.
To help you plan your year 8 maths lesson on: Calculating the mean, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 8 maths lesson on: Calculating the mean, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 3 maths lessons from the Numerical summaries of data unit, dive into the full secondary maths curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
