Inside are 4 extensive problems that include 4 interesting questions to introduce plotting scatterpoint data. Students must extract variables from the question, decide the independent and dependent variable, then plot the data on a graph. The data points are provided. The students will encounter real world examples of positive correlation, negative correlation, and no correlation. They will create an informed opinion to why this correlation exists. Then, they will decide if they are an outlier, which gives them a chance to interject their more personal opinion given and in spite of the data.

This lesson allows students to start forming opinions that are backed by numerical evidence. They will begin to see how positive and negative correlation play out in the real world and that such data can help defend arguments.

An answer key is provided. In a 60 minute class, I would have them complete 2 of the practice problems instead of all 3. For a 90 minute class, my students could easily complete all 3. Have fun! This activity sparks some good conversations among middle and high schoolers.

*Note: you may want to pre-scale the graphs, since that is not the direct standard being covered in this lesson.

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