CCSS.Math.Content.7.SP.B
The standard
Draw informal comparative inferences about two populations.
Common Core State Standards for Mathematics
What this standard means
Students compare two groups using samples, not whole populations. They need to use measures of center and variability, like mean, median, range, and mean absolute deviation, to decide what the data suggests. They should talk about overlap and differences, not just say one number is bigger.
Mastery looks like a student saying, “Group A tends to be higher, and the spreads are similar, so the difference seems meaningful.” Students often get stuck by comparing only the highest value, ignoring sample size, or treating small sample differences as proof.
Ways to teach it
- Hands-on activity: Give pairs two dot plots of class reaction times and have them mark medians, ranges, and overlap with colored pencils.
- Writing prompt: Which group appears to have longer study times, and what evidence from center and spread supports your claim?
- Quick assessment: Show two box plots and ask students to write one comparison about center and one about variability.
- Real-world connection: Compare two sports teams’ player heights using sample rosters, then decide whether one team is generally taller.
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Related standards
- CCSS.Math.Content.7.SP.A
Use random sampling to draw inferences about a population.
- CCSS.Math.Content.7.SP.B.4
Use measures of center and measures of variability for numerical data from random samples to draw informal comparative inferences about two populations.
- CCSS.Math.Content.7.SP.A.2
Use data from a random sample to draw inferences about a population with an unknown characteristic of interest. Generate multiple samples (or simulated samples)...
- CCSS.Math.Content.K.MD.A.2
Directly compare two objects with a measurable attribute in common, to see which object has "more of"/"less of" the attribute, and describe the difference.