Course Overview

Data and probability help us understand the world, make predictions, and make informed decisions. From opinion polls and scientific experiments to weather forecasts and sports statistics, data and probability are used every day to analyze information and assess uncertainty. In this course, students will learn how to collect, organize, display, and interpret data while developing an understanding of probability and chance. Through investigations, experiments, and real-world applications, students will build essential skills in statistical reasoning, critical thinking, and problem solving.

Unit 1: Collecting and Organizing Data

Learn how data is gathered, classified, and prepared for analysis.

1.1 What Is Data?

Types of data
Qualitative and quantitative data
Sources of information

1.2 Collecting Data

Surveys
Experiments
Observations
Sampling methods

1.3 Organizing Data

Tables
Frequency charts
Tally charts

1.4 Displaying Data

Bar graphs
Pictographs
Line plots

1.5 Evaluating Data Collection

Bias
Sample size
Reliability and validity

Unit 2: Graphs and Data Visualization

Explore how graphs can communicate information clearly and effectively.

2.1 Bar Graphs and Pictographs

Constructing graphs
Reading graphs
Comparing categories

2.2 Line Graphs

Trends over time
Interpreting patterns
Independent and dependent variables

2.3 Circle Graphs and Percentages

Parts of a whole
Pie charts
Percent representations

2.4 Histograms and Frequency Distributions

Grouped data
Frequency intervals
Distribution patterns

2.5 Choosing the Best Graph

Comparing graph types
Advantages and limitations
Effective communication

Unit 3: Measures of Central Tendency and Spread

Learn how statisticians summarize and describe data.

3.1 Mean (Average)

Calculating the mean
Interpreting averages
Applications

3.2 Median and Mode

Finding the median
Identifying the mode
Comparing measures of center

3.3 Range and Variability

Measuring spread
Comparing datasets
Understanding variability

3.4 Outliers and Their Effects

Identifying outliers
Effects on averages
Data interpretation

3.5 Summarizing Data

Selecting appropriate measures
Comparing datasets
Drawing conclusions

Unit 4: Introduction to Probability

Develop an understanding of chance and likelihood.

4.1 What Is Probability?

Probability as likelihood
Certain, likely, unlikely, impossible
Probability scales

4.2 Experimental Probability

Conducting experiments
Recording outcomes
Relative frequency

4.3 Theoretical Probability

Predicting outcomes
Simple probability calculations
Equally likely events

4.4 Compound Events

Multiple events
Independent events
Probability trees

4.5 Probability in Everyday Life

Weather forecasts
Games and sports
Risk assessment

Unit 5: Data, Probability, and Decision Making

Apply statistical and probability concepts to real-world situations.

5.1 Making Predictions from Data

Trends and patterns
Forecasting outcomes
Reliability of predictions

5.2 Probability and Fairness

Fair games
Expected outcomes
Designing fair activities

5.3 Statistics in the Media

Misleading graphs
Statistical claims
Critical evaluation

5.4 Data Investigations

Planning investigations
Collecting and analyzing data
Presenting findings

5.5 Capstone Data Project

Conducting a statistical study
Analyzing results
Communicating conclusions

Course Summary

By the end of this course, students will understand how data can be collected, organized, analyzed, and interpreted to answer questions and solve problems. They will be able to create and evaluate graphs, summarize datasets using statistical measures, calculate probabilities, and apply evidence-based reasoning to real-world situations.

Students will learn to:

Collect and organize data effectively.
Create and interpret a variety of graphs and charts.
Calculate and analyze mean, median, mode, and range.
Identify patterns, trends, variability, and outliers.
Understand and calculate experimental and theoretical probabilities.
Evaluate statistical claims and graphical representations critically.
Use data and probability to make informed decisions.
Conduct investigations and communicate findings clearly.

This course lays the groundwork for future studies in statistics, probability, data science, economics, scientific research, and many other fields where evidence and uncertainty play a central role. By learning to analyze information critically and reason quantitatively, students will develop skills that are valuable both inside and outside the classroom.

Last modified: Thursday, 4 June 2026, 8:51 AM