Analyze data using technology. Middle schoolers design data investigations, describe data, and draw their own conclusions. Then they select the best type of graph, graph and interpret the data, and look for patterns in trends. They also...

Use tree diagrams with multiple branches to calculate the probabilities of compound events. Pupils use tree diagrams to find the sample space for probability problems and use them to determine the probability of compound events in the...

Using a game format, learners engage in an activity called Deal or No Deal. Taking real life scenarios involving items for sale, such as cereal boxes three for $5.00, they determine whether an example is a deal or not. This lesson...

Math and science to the rescue! Some basic math concepts help scientists predict wildlife populations. Using tokens, groups simulate tagging a wildlife population. They then use proportions to estimate the population of the wildlife.

Put the better archer in a box. The performance task has pupils compare the performance of two archers using box-and-whisker plots. The resource includes sample responses that are useful in comparing individuals' work to others.

Classmates create a scale drawing from another scale drawing, changing the scale in the process. Groups enlarge or reduce the scale of the drawing and discuss their processes.

Biking may be an outlier. Using data from 10 states on the number of people reporting they bike to work, pupils calculate the measures of center. Scholars determine the range and interquartile range and find which provides a better...

Students use different sampling methods to determine the population size and appropriate space for monarch butterflies. In this averages lesson plan, students complete word problems where they can accurately estimate the size of an...

While this presentation only has two sample questions, it provides a thorough exploration of solving word problems. Using a step-by-step method, this resource takes a word problem involving addition and shows how to identify the key...

Evaluate young mathematicians' understanding of area and perimeter with this series of three assessment tasks. Challenging students to not only calculate the area and perimeter of irregular shapes, but to explain in writing their...

Mathematicians use an inquiry method to solve linear equations. In this linear equations lesson, students practice solving equations using addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. They solve multi-step equations and equations...

For this math skills worksheet, students first read a one page information sheet about common errors in arithmetic calculations. Students then solve 39 multiplication problems with 3 digits. Students solve 29 long division problems with...

Students read "Public Is Wary but Supportive on Rights Curbs," at the New York Times online. They explore how opinion polls are created and conducted, focusing on the wording of questions and the methods of sampling a population.

How do you summarize data that cannot be averaged? Using an exploratory method, learners complete a two-way frequency table on super powers. The subject matter builds upon 8th grade knowledge of two-way tables. 

Students create survey questions to discover why students join clubs. Using sampling methods and question phrasing techniques, they conduct the survey both in and out of school. Once students analyze their survey information, they...

What does it mean to be normal in the world of statistics? Pupils first explore the meaning of a normal distribution in the eight-lesson module. They then apply the statistics related to normal distributions such as mean, standard...

Learners estimate the total number of species in Ecuador using the capture/recapture method. They collect data about each species and act as members of a science expedition to determine the total number of species by using mathematical...

Use tables, graphs, and substitution to solve systems of linear equations. An envelope of sample problems is passed around the classroom, and each learner has the opportunity to solve the system in the envelope. This is a great way to...

Get a line on the snakes. The assessment task requires the class to determine the species of unknown snakes based upon collected data. Individuals analyze two scatter plots and determine the most likely species for five...

Clean, but captivating, two online simulations demonstrate probability for middle schoolers. They can choose the number of coins and tosses and watch as the results pile up. They can choose from a variety of spinner types and the number...

Multiplying with multiples of 10, 100, and 1,000 provides an opportunity to discuss patterns that arise with zeros. The class uses these patterns to solve problems. Then they rotate through three work stations, including a computer-based...

Probability, especially conditional probability, can be a slippery concept for young statisticians.  Statements that seem self-evident on the surface often require a daunting amount of calculations to explicate, or turn out to be...

Wouldn't it be great to work in a candy factory? Learners get their chance as they first design a carton for a candy that meets certain requirements. They then examine and analyze nets and explanations in sample student responses.

Presenting ... the gold standard for a lesson. Learners first investigate a task maximizing the area of a plot for gold prospecting. They then examine a set of sample student responses to evaluate their strengths and weaknesses.