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Data Collection Accuracy

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Data Collection Accuracy

Use the data table and your knowledge of statistical investigations to answer each question. Explain your thinking where asked.

Choosing Data Collection Methods

1.Match each method in the left column with the example in the right column that best describes it.

Observation
Survey or questionnaire
Measurement
Secondary data

Measure the mass of a sample of students’ school bags.
Ask students which school subject they enjoy most.
Use the school’s published attendance register.
Count the number of bicycles entering the school gate.

2.A student wants to find out which types of litter are most often left on the school courts. Which method would provide the most direct evidence?

Ask students what litter they think is common
Inspect the courts and record each litter item found
Weigh all the rubbish collected at the local transfer station
Read an article about litter in New Zealand

3.Give two benefits of collecting information with a survey and one possible limitation.

Checking Data Quality

Student code

Height

Favourite activity

Koru

154 cm

Swimming

Pōhutukawa

−8 cm

Cycling

Kea

161 cm

Footbal

Tui

169 inches

Basketball

Rimu

157 cm

4.Identify three data-quality problems in the sample table. For each one, state a suitable correction or follow-up action.

5.Explain why a data collector should check entries before calculating summaries such as the most common response or the average.

Describing Variables and Planning an Investigation

6.Complete a simple data dictionary for a dataset containing student code, height and favourite activity. State what each variable records and its unit or format.

7.Plan how you could investigate which lunch food is most popular among Year 8 students at your school. State a suitable collection method, what response you would record, how you would check the data, and one ethical point to consider.