Year 8 Statistics Unit

He Tātari Raraunga - Data Detective

Duration: 4-5 weeks | Level: Year 8

Statistical investigation, probability, and data analysis using real NZ contexts

Week 1: Introduction to Statistical Investigations

Big Question: How do we use data to make decisions in Aotearoa?

📊 Māori Data Sovereignty

Explore how data is used in te ao Māori (e.g., Iwi profiles, health surveys)

🔍 Hands-on Data Hunt

Collect class data: favourite sports, whānau size, travel time to school

📈 Graphing Practice

Create bar graphs, pie charts, and dot plots using Google Sheets

Assessment: Quick quiz on data types (categorical vs. numerical)

Week 2: Analysing NZ Sports Data

Big Question: What can NZ sports data tell us about performance trends?

🏏 Black Caps vs. All Blacks Analysis

Compare batting averages (cricket) vs. tackle success rates (rugby)

📦 Box Plot Exploration

Use CODAP to compare team scores across seasons

🎲 Probability in Sports

Predict outcomes using historical win/loss data

Assessment: Create an infographic comparing two NZ sports teams

Week 3: Census & Population Trends

Big Question: How is Aotearoa changing?

🏘️ NZ Census Explorer

Investigate population growth, ethnicity, and regional differences

📋 Hands-on Survey

Poll classmates on cultural backgrounds and languages spoken

📊 Scatter Plot Analysis

Compare income vs. education levels using Stats NZ data

Assessment: Write a short report on one key trend from NZ census data

Week 4: Probability & Real-World Predictions

Big Question: How likely is it?

📚 Māori Legends & Probability

Use pūrākau (stories) to discuss chance (e.g., Maui fishing up the North Island)

🎲 Dice & Card Experiments

Calculate experimental vs. theoretical probability

🌧️ Weather Predictions

Analyse MetService rainfall data for different regions

Assessment: Design a probability game using NZ themes (e.g., kiwi rescue chance)

Week 5: Final Project & Presentation

Big Question: How can data help solve real problems?

🏆 Sports Analyst Report

Predict future team performance using past data

🏘️ Community Survey

Investigate local issue (e.g., school transport, recycling habits)

🌺 Cultural Trends Infographic

Compare Māori & Pasifika population changes

Assessment: Oral presentation + written reflection on findings

🛠️ Digital Tools

  • NZ Stats Explorer (stats.govt.nz)
  • CODAP (Free data analysis tool)
  • Google Sheets (Graphing & calculations)
  • NZ Maths Probability Games

🏠 Whānau Connection

  • Interview whānau about changes in their lifetime
  • Compare class data with national averages
  • Discuss cultural perspectives on data collection

📚 Learning Support

  • Support: Structured templates for data collection
  • Extension: Investigate global data comparisons
  • Cultural Integration: Te Reo Māori statistical terms

🎯 Key Learning Objectives

  • Plan and conduct statistical investigations
  • Analyse and interpret data displays
  • Calculate measures of centre and spread
  • Understand probability in real contexts
  • Communicate findings effectively

Unit Conclusion

"Kia kaha ki te tātari raraunga – Be strong in analysing data!"

This unit empowers ākonga (students) to see statistics in their daily lives, from sports to social issues. By using real NZ data, they develop critical thinking and digital literacy while connecting with te ao Māori and Aotearoa's unique context.

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