Year 6 - Maths
Explain why the mean is useful and when it is not appropriate
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 why the mean is useful and when it is not appropriate representation of a set of data.
Key Notes
- If there is an outlier or value that does not fit with the set the mean average will not be appropriate.
- In some contexts, the mean average does not give a useful representation of a set of data,
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 collection of facts, such as numbers, words, measurements, observations or even just descriptions of things.
- Outlier: An outlier is a value that lies outside. It is much smaller or larger than most of the other values in a set of data.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- You need to look carefully at a set of data to make sure that the values are reasonable and that calculation of the mean average will give a value that is useful when describing the set and comparing.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.
If there is an outlier or value that does not fit with the set the mean average will not be appropriate. In some contexts, the mean average does not give a useful representation of a set of data,.
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: You need to look carefully at a set of data to make sure that the values are reasonable and that calculation of the mean average will give a value that is useful when describing the set and comparing. Correction: Encourage pupils to look carefully at a set of data, identifying values that look unusual and thinking about the impact that they will have if the mean average is calculated. An outlying value in one set of data may be reasonable in another set.
More Lessons In This Unit
- Explain how the mean changes when the total quantity or number of values changes Study Guide
- 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
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