Use of data in statistics — WJEC A-Level Mathematics
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Use of data in statistics explained
Use technology such as spreadsheets to sort, filter, plot and summarise a large data set, then relate patterns to its context.
Read the full explanation
A calculator can analyse a smaller subset: enter single-variable values, and frequencies if supplied, to obtain a mean and standard deviation. Paired bivariate observations are needed for correlation or linear regression; single-variable data cannot provide a regression line. Check whether the requested standard deviation uses n or n − 1 and select the matching calculator output. Record the data used, relevant settings and results with units. Compare a subset with the wider data set and consider sampling bias before generalising.
Your focus
- Calculate sample means and standard deviations from a data subset using calculator statistical functions.
- Assess whether an extracted subset reflects the characteristic patterns of the wider data set.
- Communicate analytical methods clearly when using calculator technology to evaluate sample features.
Use of data in statistics exam tips
Marking Points
- entering data into calculator statistics mode to find the sample mean or sample standard deviation
- stating calculated statistical measures with correct contextual units
- assessing whether an extracted sub-sample provides an accurate representation of the wider data set
- explaining how technology (e.g. a spreadsheet) can be used to explore a large data set, such as sorting or plotting features
- distinguishing sample standard deviation (s or σ_n−1) from population standard deviation (σ or σ_n) in calculator output
Examiner Tips
- 💡Check your calculator frequency column is correctly configured before entering sub-sample frequencies.
- 💡Write down the substitution into standard formulas alongside calculator outputs to safeguard method marks.
Common Mistakes
- confusing sample standard deviation (s or σ_n−1) with population standard deviation (σ or σ_n) on calculator outputs
- clearing calculator memory without noting down required intermediate totals
- treating a sub-sample as automatically representative of the whole data set without checking for anomalies or bias