Mathematics Grade 8
Educational Links

Strand: STATISTICS AND PROBABILITY (8.SP)

Investigate patterns of association in bivariate data (Standards 8.SP.1-4).

Standard 8.SP.3

Use the equation of a linear model to solve problems in the context of bivariate measurement data, interpreting the slope and intercept. For example, in a linear model for a biology experiment, interpret a slope of 1.5 cm/hr as meaning that an additional hour of sunlight each day is associated with an additional 1.5 cm in mature plant height. (Calculating equations for a linear model is not expected in grade 8.)

• Bivariate Data and Analysis: Anthropological Studies
  This lesson opens with a video from an anthropologist explaining how he uses bivariate data to examine the impact that slavery had on the slave's height and weight. Students then use his data in the classroom activity which has them study the relationship between tibia and femur measurements and a person's stature. NOTE: You have to create a Free PBS Account to view this web page, but it is easy to do and worth the effort.
• Chapter 6 - Mathematical Foundation (UMSMP)
  This is Chapter 6 of the Utah Middle School Math: Grade 8 textbook. It provides a Mathematical Foundation for Statistics: Investigate patterns of Association in Bivariate Data.
• Chapter 6 - Student Workbook (UMSMP)
  This is Chapter 6 of the Utah Middle School Math: Grade 8 student workbook. It focuses on Statistics: Investigate patterns of Association in Bivariate Data.
• Grade 8 Unit 6: Linear Models and Tables (Georgia Standards)
  In this unit students will identify the rate of change and the initial value from tables, graphs, equations, or verbal descriptions; write a model for a linear function; sketch a graph when given a verbal description of a situation; analyze scatter plots; informally develop a line of best fit; use bivariate data to create graphs and linear models; and recognize patterns and interpret bivariate data.
• IXL Game: Linear Functions: Slope of a Graph
  This game will help eighth graders learn to find the slope of a graph. This is just one of many online games that supports the Utah Math core. Note: The IXL site requires subscription for unlimited use.
• Lesson Starter: Populated Communities
  Students will use statistics and probability knowledge, as well as critical thinking skills, to solve problems.
• Linear Regression and Correlation
  In this lesson students will plot data onto a scatter plot and then determine the line of best fit for the data sets.
• Statistics and Probability (8.SP) - 8th Grade Core Guide
  The Utah State Board of Education (USBE) and educators around the state of Utah developed these guides for Mathematics Grade 8 Statistics and Probability.
• Student Task: Bird's Eggs
  In this task students will user a scatter graph to investigate a possible connection between the length and width of bird's eggs.
• Student Task: Birds' Eggs
  In this task, students use a scatter graph to look for patterns in the size of birds' eggs.
• Student Task: Scatter Diagram
  In this task, students will use a scatter diagram to compare the results of two school tests.
• Student Task: Short Tasks - Statistics and Probability
  A set of short tasks for grades 7 and 8 reinforcing statistics and probability.
• Student Task: Sugar Prices
  In this task, students must use a graph showing the prices and weights of bags of sugar to find the bag offering the best value for money.
• Univariate and Bivariate Data
  This lesson helps students understand these two types of data and choose the best type of graph or measure appropriate to each.
• US Airports, Assessment Variation
  This is one of two assessment tasks illustrating the similarities and differences between the 8th grade standards in Functions and in Statistics and Probability. This one uses a linear function to model a relationship between two quantities that show statistical variation and do not have an exact linear relationship.

---

http://www.uen.org - in partnership with Utah State Board of Education (USBE) and Utah System of Higher Education (USHE).  Send questions or comments to USBE Specialist - Lindsey  Henderson and see the Mathematics - Secondary website. For general questions about Utah's Core Standards contact the Director - Jennifer  Throndsen.

These materials have been produced by and for the teachers of the State of Utah. Copies of these materials may be freely reproduced for teacher and classroom use. When distributing these materials, credit should be given to Utah State Board of Education. These materials may not be published, in whole or part, or in any other format, without the written permission of the Utah State Board of Education, 250 East 500 South, PO Box 144200, Salt Lake City, Utah 84114-4200.