ResourceMAP - Data Analysis: Categorical Data - Teacher Edition

ResourceMAP modules are relatively short and designed for flexible implementation; that is, they can be used in regular classes as well as in special test-preparation settings. Each module contains a set of contextual problems in several formats: multi-part open response, short response, and multiple-choice. Accompanying the problem set are tip sheets that serve several purposes including lists of formulas, calculator instruction, and brief reviews of the module's underlying mathematics. Also provided are teacher notes (the module purpose, the mathematical focus, and implementation commentary), answers to all problems, and (in a few cases) handout masters.

Data Analysis: Categorical Data

Data are collected every day. Whether you know it or not, you contribute to the
amount of data collected daily. When you rent movies at your local video store, the
titles, dates rented, dates returned, and fines are saved in the video store's
computer. In a shopping mall, you may be asked to complete a survey. Some surveys
target high school students in order to learn about their spending habits, eating
preferences, driving behaviors, career plans, favorite radio stations, and so forth. In
order to analyze data, the data need to be organized. Tables and graphic displays
often reveal interesting information about the data.

I. Purpose

• To summarize categorical data in frequency/percentage distribution
  tables
• To display graphically one-variable, categorical data

II. Mathematical Focus

• Data analysis
• Percentages

III. Tip Sheets
Three Tip Sheets accompany this module.

• Creating a Frequency/Percentage Distribution Table: This Tip
  Sheet shows how to (1) organize category data in a frequency distribution
  table and (2) calculate percentages.
• Bar Graphs or Bar Charts: This Tip Sheet provides instructions for
  making bar graphs (bar charts) that represent a frequency or percentage
  distribution.
• Circle Graphs or Pie Charts: This Tip Sheet provides instructions for
  making circle graphs (pie charts) that represent a frequency or
  percentage distribution.