Explain how to calcluate the mean of a set of data including a value of zero
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can explain how to calculate the mean of a set of data including a value of zero
Key learning points
- The mean value of a set of data is the total of the numbers divided by how many numbers there are.
- If a value in the set is zero it is still included in the calculation of the mean.
Keywords
Mean average - The mean average is a single number expressing the typical value in a set of data. It is calculated by finding the total of the set of data and dividing by how many values there are.
Set of data - A set of data is a collection of facts, such as numbers, words, measurements, observations or even just descriptions of things.
Common misconception
Some pupils may think that zero values do not need to be included when dividing by how many values there are in the set of data.
Show that even if a value is zero, it is still a value in the set of data. It doesn't affect the total of the set but does need to be included in the total number of values in the set.
Teacher tip
The context of number of pages read each night could be changed if not appropriate for the context. The numbers chosen may need a mix of mental and written calculation but are designed not to distract from the learning about mean average.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1. 48 ÷ 6 =
Q2.360 ÷ 10 =
Q3.432 ÷ 10 =
Q4.45 + 34 + 24 + 19 + 29 + 67 =
Q5.The mean average is calculated by finding the total of the set of data and by how many values there are.
Q6.Here are the scores from Pine class’ spelling test: 10 9 3 10 What is the mean average score?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Use the table to calculate Jacob’s mean average number of pages read. The mean average is
Q2.Laura says: ‘Complete the table by working out how many pages I read on Friday.’ What is the missing value?
Q3.Calculate the mean average of the number of pages Jacob reads over four days. The mean average is
Q4.Calculate the mean average of the number of pages Sofia reads over ten days. The mean average is
Q5.Look at the table. How many pages does Alex read on average?
Q6.Lucas and Laura are looking at the amount read by Sam. Lucas says Sam had read a mean average of 10 pages per day. Laura says Sam has read a mean average of 13.3 pages per day. Who is correct?
To help you plan your 6 maths lesson on: Explain how to calcluate the mean of a set of data including a value of zero, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 6 maths lesson on: Explain how to calcluate the mean of a set of data including a value of zero, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 2 maths lessons from the Mean average unit, dive into the full primary maths curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.