Virginia SOL 7.PS.2.b
The Standard
Determine the data needed to answer a formulated question and collect the data (or acquire existing data) using various methods (e.g., observations, measurement, surveys, experiments).
Virginia Standards of Learning for Mathematics · The student will apply the data cycle (formulate questions; collect or acquire data; organize and represent data; and analyze data and communicate results) with a focus on histograms.
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students decide exactly what information will answer a question. They identify the people or items to study, then collect or locate data using measurements, observations, surveys, experiments, or existing records.
What Mastery Looks Like
- Students can name the numerical or categorical data needed, identify whom or what to study, and choose a suitable collection method. Their plan includes clear units, survey wording, or observation rules.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may collect information that does not directly answer the question or survey only convenient classmates. They may also confuse observations with opinions or use vague measurements without units.
How to Assess It
- Give students the question, “How many minutes do seventh graders spend on homework each night?” Ask them to name the data, group, and collection method needed.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Measure classmates’ hand spans in centimeters, record the results, and check whether the data answer a question about typical hand span.
Write a collection plan for the question, “How much sleep do seventh graders get?” Include the group, variable, units, and method.
Play Method Match by pairing question cards with observation, measurement, survey, experiment, or existing-data cards, then justify each match.
Use cafeteria waste totals to plan what data the school would need before changing lunch portions.
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Printable 7.PS.2.b Worksheet
A ready-to-print activity worksheet aligned to 7.PS.2.b, with an answer key for the teacher on its own page. No account needed.
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Related Standards
- 8.PS.2.b
The 8th Grade version of this standard.
- 8.PS.3.b
Determine the data needed to answer a formulated question and collect the data (or acquire existing data) of no more than 20 items using various methods (e.g., ...
- 5.PS.1.b
Determine the data needed to answer a formulated question and collect or acquire existing data (limited to 30 or fewer data points) using various methods (e.g.,...
- 6.PS.1.b
The 6th Grade version of this standard.
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