Mean, median, mode, range, and outliers are the focus of this Grade 10 Computer Science worksheet for a Data and Information lesson. Students examine how measures of center summarize a data set, how range describes spread, and why an extreme value can make one summary measure more useful than another.

Compare Ways to Describe a Data Set

Students work with the mean, median, and mode as measures of center. They review how the mean is calculated from all values, how the median is found from the middle position after sorting, and how the mode identifies the most frequent value. The worksheet then connects these summaries with the range, calculated from the maximum and minimum, as a simple measure of spread and variability.

Rather than treating each measure as an isolated definition, students consider which statistic better represents a situation. Examples involving test scores and viewing times require them to decide whether the mean or median gives a more useful description of a typical value.

Focus on Outliers and Interpretation

A central idea is the effect of outliers on the mean and median. Students examine why an extreme value can pull the mean toward it while the median is usually less affected by a single unusually high or low value. They use this reasoning to explain why the median may be more informative when a data set includes an outlier.

Students also interpret what a larger range says about the spread of values and distinguish clearly between measures that describe center and those that describe variability.

Student Practice Included

• A dialogue-based question introducing measures of center and spread
• A matching activity connecting statistical terms with their meanings
• A cloze passage reviewing mean, median, mode, range, and outliers
• A diagram-labeling activity
• An informational reading passage explaining center, spread, and the effect of extreme values
• Multiple-choice questions involving definitions, calculations, interpretation, and selecting appropriate measures
• True-or-false statements addressing common misconceptions
• Short-answer questions requiring students to explain statistical choices and calculations
• An extended response comparing data sets with and without a significant outlier

Support for Teaching and Review

A separate Teacher Guide PDF includes learning objectives, teaching tips, discussion questions, and common mistakes. The worksheet can support direct instruction, guided practice, independent work, homework, or review within a Grade 10 Data and Information unit.