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Year 8 - Maths

Calculating the mode

Numerical summaries of data

Unit Summary

In this unit pupils explore the concept of measures of central tendancy, developing understanding of different types of average and their relative benefits and drawbacks. We then investigate other summaries of data such as the range and data comparison techniques.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to calculate the mode from data presented in a frequency table and different graphs.

Key Notes

  • The mode can be calculated from an ungrouped frequency table.
  • The mode can be calculated from a bar chart.
  • The mode can be calculated from a line graph.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Frequency: The frequency is the number of times an event occurs; or the number of individuals (people, animals etc.) with some specific property.
  • Mode: The mode is the most frequent value. It is a measure of central tendency representing the average of the values.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Pupils may mistakenly choose the bars which have the same heights to be the mode.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.

The mode can be calculated from an ungrouped frequency table. The mode can be calculated from a bar chart.

2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Frequency'

The frequency is the number of times an event occurs; or the number of individuals (people, animals etc.) with some specific property. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.

3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.

Mistake: Pupils may mistakenly choose the bars which have the same heights to be the mode. Correction: By reminding the pupils of the definition of the mode and asking the question in the context of the data, this should support students.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 8 Maths guide library.