Lesson: Sample and Population Methods Mathematics

In this lesson, we will learn how to determine when to choose between taking a sample and a census.

Lesson Plan

Students will be able to

understand the definition of a population and a sample,
understand the definition of sampling units and a sampling frame,
identify the advantages and disadvantages of samplings versus censuses,
choose whether to use a sample or a census in a given situation,
understand that the size of a sample affects the validity of conclusions.

Lesson Worksheet

Q1:

A local motoring company wants to determine the average number of cars per household in a town. They survey every household in the town. What is the sampling unit in this survey?

Q2:

A company that manufactures bicycle helmets wants to determine the average force that will break their helmets. Which of the following is the reason a sample would be preferred over a census in this case?

Q3:

To determine the popularity of different meals at a school, the school staff send questionnaires to 100 of the school’s 500 students. What is the population of this study?