Log inSign up for FREE
Library

One Weird Mammal**

Last updated about 3 years ago
12 questions

One Weird Mammal!


Read the article One Weird Mammal. Be on the lookout for clues to help you answer each question.

Once you click on the article:

The article can also be found in our Google Classroom.

Part A:
Scientists tagged 7 platypuses and recorded their weights. Then they used trackers to study how far the platypuses traveled. Receivers placed along a river detected the trackers, which they used to estimate how far each one moved. Below is their data.
3


Calculate the mean, median, and mode. Then match each answer.

Draggable itemCorresponding Item
mean
1.6
median
1.7
mode
1.8
3

Use the data, Number of times Trackers Detected in 6 Months, for questions 2 - 4
Calculate the mean.

1

What is the median of the data for Number of times Trackers Detected in 6 Months?

1

The mode of the data for Number of times Trackers Detected in 6 Months is

3

Calculate the mean, median, and mode of the data for Average Daily Distance Traveled.

1

Which data set has multiple outliers (values much lower or higher than the mean)?

1

Identify the two outliers from the data set.

Talking Mean & Median

Mean and median are measures of center used to compare and draw inferences about different data sets. However, each measure can give a very different picture of the data being compared.

Is it better to use the mean or median when comparing data sets?
Using the mean is a better option when the data sets have fairly consistent values, with few "gaps" in the data. A gap is formed where a big separation exists between the majority and an outlier.

Using the median is a better option when the data sets have outliers or extreme values that can drastically affect the mean.

Part B: Use the final data set to answer the remaining questions.
1

What is the mean of the data set? Round your answer to the nearest whole number.

1

What is the median of the data set?

1

What is the mode of the data set?

2

Does the data set have any outliers? Explain.

1

Which measure of center best describes the data set? Explain.