Part A — Interpreting displays (mode, range, shape)
Data displays let us compare groups. A side-by-side column graph shows two sets of bars together. We describe data using mode (most common value), range (largest − smallest) and shape (where values cluster, spread or gap). We also notice how a display's features — axis scale, colour, labels — can influence a reader.
Read the side-by-side column graph (above)
Q1. Which sport is most popular with boys? With girls?
Q2. Find the mode for the boys' data and for the girls' data.
Q3. Find the range of the boys' values (largest − smallest).
Q4. Describe the shape of the data: where does it cluster? Are there any big gaps?
Q5. How many more girls than boys chose netball?
Features that influence an audience
Q6. A graph uses a vertical axis that starts at 10 instead of 0. How might that change the impression a reader gets?
Q7. Name two features of a display (other than the numbers) that can make one group look more impressive than it really is.
Part B — Run your own data investigation
A full statistical investigation runs from a question all the way to a communicated finding. This is the capstone task of the unit (WA6MPSS3) — it pulls together collecting, representing and interpreting real data.
Run a complete data investigation through the four stages.
1. Analyse — pose a question. Write a statistical question you can answer with class data (e.g. "How does screen-time differ across the week?" or "What are the most common ways students travel to school?"). Decide what data you need.
2. Collect — ensure accuracy & consistency. Describe how you will collect the data fairly. How will you make sure everyone measures or counts the same way?
3. Represent — choose a display. Choose and draw the most suitable display (a line graph for change over time, a side-by-side column graph for comparing groups). Label axes and add a title and legend.
4. Interpret & communicate. State the mode, range and shape of your data. Describe reasons for variation. Could your display mislead a reader — how have you made it fair? Write 2–3 sentences communicating your main finding.