Year 6 - Maths
Explain how the mean changes when the total quantity or number of values changes
Mean average
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This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.
Unit Summary
In this unit pupils will learn how to calculate the mean of a set of data and use the mean to make comparisons between two sets of information where appropriate.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to explain how the mean changes when the total quantity or number of values changes.
Key Notes
- When the total value of the set increases, the mean average increases.
- When the total value of the set decreases, the mean average decreases.
- When the number of values changes, the total quantity must be divided by the new number of values.
Vocabulary To Learn
- Mean average: The mean average is a single number expressing the typical value in a set of data. It is calculated by finding the total of the set of data and dividing by how many values there are.
- Set of data: A set of data is a collection of facts, such as numbers, words, measurements, observations or even just descriptions of things.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Not realising that if you change the number of values in the set, you must divide the total by the new number of values and that this affects the value of the mean average.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.
When the total value of the set increases, the mean average increases. When the total value of the set decreases, the mean average decreases.
2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Mean average'
The mean average is a single number expressing the typical value in a set of data. It is calculated by finding the total of the set of data and dividing by how many values there are. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.
3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.
Mistake: Not realising that if you change the number of values in the set, you must divide the total by the new number of values and that this affects the value of the mean average. Correction: Use the definition of the mean average to check that the total of the set of data is correctly calculated and that the number of values in the set of data is correctly identified in all examples and contexts.
More Lessons In This Unit
- Explain how to calcluate the mean of a set of data including a value of zero Study Guide
- Explain how to use the mean to make comparisons between two sets of data Study Guide
- Explain the relationship between the mean and sharing equally Study Guide
- Explain why the mean is useful and when it is not appropriate Study Guide
Browse all guides in the Year 6 Maths guide library.