The Large Data Set: Making Lessons Meaningful

Overview

AS and A level mathematics specifications require students to:

• become familiar with a specific large data set
• use technology to explore the data set
• interpret real data
• use data to investigate questions arising in real contexts

The large data set is an excellent tool to address these requirements. We will consider strategies to access the large data set throughout the statistics component of the course and how it can be used to infuse our teaching and add richness and context to our lessons.

Aims

• Develop strategies for working with large data sets
• Consider how technology can best be used to explore large data sets
• Investigate strategies to ensure students become familiar with both the content and the context of large data sets
• Consider the implications of an increased focus on interpretation over calculation in A level maths

Who will benefit from attending?

Teachers currently teaching, or planning to teach, the applied content of A level maths.

Both experienced and inexperienced teachers are welcome to attend.

Content

• Large data set requirements; what is meant by familiarity with the large data set?
• The use of stimulus questions and activities; interpreting graphs and summary statistics
• Making use of technology to promote familiarity and understanding of the large data set; Excel, GeoGebra and hands-on activities
• Teaching concepts through the large data set
• Assessment of the large data set; markschemes and examiners' reports

Materials and Equipment

Please bring a laptop or tablet with you, ensuring you have Excel and GeoGebra Classic 5 (not 6 as we need access to the spreadsheet function) installed on it.