Lesson 6 - Sampling #2

Lesson Goals:

By the end of this lesson, students can:

Apply different methods of sampling to make inferences about a population
Analyse common biases in sampling

Content:

Investigate reports of studies in digital media and elsewhere for information on their planning and implementation (ACMSP277)

investigate and evaluate the appropriateness of sampling methods and sample size used in reports where statements about a population are based on a sample

Working Mathematically:

Determine whether a sample used enables inferences or conclusions to be drawn about the relevant population (Reasoning)

Class Activities:

Class Brainstorm

Students are given unique scenarios where a sampling method is used but bias is introduced, for example, selecting 5 people from a population of 5000 (bias; sample is too small in relation to the bigger population). Each group identifies the bias, describes why it introduces bias and propose a change to the sampling method that can resolve the issue.

More examples of how bias can be introduced:

relying on samples made up of volunteer respondents
sampling from select groups within a population, without including the same proportion from all the groups in the population
sampling from what is readily available
selecting a sample that is too small in relation to the bigger population
selecting a sample that is not generated randomly
selecting a sample that is not representative of the bigger population.

Note: The teacher needs to demonstrate that samples need to take into consideration the purpose of the information. For example, when seeking information to help select equipment for a new gym, it may not be appropriate to ask members of the school band.

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