Data Analysis: An Elementary Math Unit in CIS
Canadian International School of Guangzhou
2022-02-11
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We live in a world filled with explosive information in all areas of our lives, and it changes rapidly in every second. To find, analyze, distinguish and use data has become an essential skill set for future leaders in 21st century. It has become an important course in universities and colleges for different majors. But at CIS, our students start to learn about data as early as in Elementary level. How did they do it?
What Is Data? A recent activity in Grade 5 focused on data in Math. The new unit on data relationships began with students investigating the question, ‘What is Data?’ Students extracted different kinds of data from a real-life example (an image of Kenzo the dog). This learning is shown in the image of the flowchart. Students produced data represented by numbers (quantitative) and by words/description (qualitative). Further, investigation revealed that qualitative data is arrived at by counting (discrete data) or by measuring (continuous data). As the discussion shifted to collecting data, students resolved that information can be collected in two main ways: by yourself (first-hand data) or by using data collected by others (second-hand). Surveys were identified as one way to data: a census collects data from every member of a group, while a sample is for only some members of a group. How Reliable is Data? To review and consolidate students' learning, the class completed a paired quiz addressing the points mentioned above and a sample survey. Students collected first-hand data from their partner, and then a census to collect second-hand data about their partner by asking other classmates. This activity led to discussion of a question that is central to working with data: how reliable is it? In other words, how much can the data be trusted to be true? The class discussion was recorded in a simple table showing some of the strengths and weaknesses of first versus second-hand data. How Does the Alberta Curriculum Address Data in Elementary Grade Levels? In completing this activity, we are working towards satisfying the General Learning Outcome for Data Analysis, as specified in the Alberta Program of Studies, namely: “Collect, display and analyze data to solve problems.’ The relevant specific outcome to differentiate between first-hand and second-hand data’ was also addressed. Data is a fascinating area of Math, and we will continue the investigations over the next few weeks.
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