Lesson 1: What is Statistics?

🎯 Learning Intentions

• Understand what statistics are and why we use them
• Recognize the difference between data and information
• Explore how statistics tell stories about people in Aotearoa

1. Hook: Data Detective (10 mins)

What does data tell us about our class?

Activity: Quick class census. Ask 3 questions (e.g., favorite kai, transport to school, iwi affiliation). Create a live human graph.

Ask: "What does this 'picture' tell us that a list of names doesn't?"

2. Concept: The PPDAC Cycle (15 mins)

Introduce the PPDAC Cycle which guides all statistical investigations:

• Problem (Pātai) - Asking the question
• Plan (Mahere) - Deciding how to get answers
• Data (Raraunga) - Collecting information
• Analysis (Tātari) - Looking for patterns
• Conclusion (Whakatau) - Answering the question

Metaphor: Like detective work, we need a process to solve the mystery.

3. Exploration: Stats NZ (20 mins)

Activity: Visit the Stats NZ website.

Find one interesting fact about:

• Population of Aotearoa
• The environment
• Māori wellbeing

Discuss: "How does the government use this information to make big decisions?"

4. Reflection (5 mins)

Exit Ticket: Write down one question you have about our school that data could help answer.

(e.g., "Do Year 8s eat healthier lunches than Year 7s?")