Interpolation versus extrapolation
I can state the difference between interpolation and extrapolation and the limitations of each.
Interpolation versus extrapolation
I can state the difference between interpolation and extrapolation and the limitations of each.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Interpolation can be used to estimate a value within the data set.
- Extrapolation can be used to estimate a value outside of the data set.
- Extrapolation may not be valid as this is outside observed set of data values.
- Interpolation may not be valid due to the limitations of sampling.
Keywords
Interpolation - Interpolation is the process of estimating unknown values that are inside the range of existing data.
Extrapolations - Extrapolation is the process of estimating unknown values that are outside the range of existing data.
Common misconception
Interpolation and extrapolation always produce accurate predictions.
Extrapolation may not be valid as this is outside the observed set of data values (e.g. a linear trend might not continue indefinitely). Interpolation may not be valid due to the limitations of the data set.
To help you plan your year 10 maths lesson on: Interpolation versus extrapolation, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 maths lesson on: Interpolation versus extrapolation, 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.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 4 maths lessons from the Graphical representations of data: scatter graphs and time series unit, dive into the full secondary maths curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Licence
Starter quiz
6 Questions







Exit quiz
6 Questions



