Statistics - The Mean - Worksheet

The concept of the mean, or average, is a fundamental statistical measure taught in Year 6, where students learn to calculate the mean of a given set of data. The lesson involves using addition and division skills to determine the mean by dividing the total sum of the numbers by the quantity of items in the set. This is encapsulated in the formula: Mean = Total ÷ number of items. Students are encouraged to apply this method to various contexts, such as finding the mean number of runs scored by a batsman or the mean number of crayons of different colours. The lesson also explores scenarios where some data is missing, and the mean is known, requiring students to work backwards to deduce the missing figures.

Through differentiated activities, children engage with the material at varying levels of complexity, using pictorial representations and tables to aid their calculations. For those working towards the expected level, calculations involve multiples of five, while those working at expected levels use a broader range of numbers. Students working at greater depth tackle more complex problems involving larger data sets. Key questions prompt critical thinking about the usefulness and limitations of the mean as an indicator in real-life situations. Problem-solving exercises further challenge students to apply their understanding in practical scenarios, such as determining the age of family members given certain conditions or calculating the number of goals scored in a series of football matches.