Data Analysis

We have concluded our in-depth study of time and how it helps us stay organized. We are now beginning to take a closer look at data analysis in math. First, we are beginning our unit by understanding just what it means to gather data. We spent the end of last week examining the two words gathering and data. The students were first asked to draw pictures or write their ideas of when they had heard these words before. 

After collating our prior knowledge of each word, we discussed our ideas and built upon our thoughts. Some examples the students gave of when they had heard the word gather included "gathering near the teacher" and "gathering pencils after they have spilled on the floor". The word data was a bit trickier as many students didn't remember having prior experience with this word. Ayushi got us thinking when she said that her mom had said that when the power is out, the TV does not work and it does not give any data. Levi continued upon this idea by adding that computers and technology transmit data, and that you can even share data by putting it onto a USB. We eventually came up with basic definitions of both words. 

Having a better idea of what it means to "gather data", the students were challenged to gather data about what time the teammates in our class each go to bed. No direction was given as how to go about collecting the data or as the best way to organize it.

This lesson provides insight into where we will begin this unit and the students' initial understanding of how one might go about collecting information. Because our last unit of inquiry focused on organization, we will apply our strong foundation in this area to our math as well. Tomorrow we will examine how the different members of our class went about collecting and organizing their data. We will learn from one another and hopefully come up with some new strategies that may help us in the coming weeks.