Population vs Sample: Parameters vs Statistics

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What is a parameter in statistics?

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A parameter is a numerical value that summarizes a characteristic of a population, such as the average or total.

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CCSS.HSS.IC.B.3

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What is a statistic in statistics?

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A statistic is a numerical value that summarizes a characteristic of a sample, such as the average or total.

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CCSS.6.SP.A.3

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What is the difference between a population and a sample?

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A population includes all members of a specified group, while a sample is a subset of the population used to represent it.

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CCSS.7.SP.A.1

CCSS.HSS.IC.A.1

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Example of a parameter: Average height of all students in a school.

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This is a parameter because it describes a characteristic of the entire population of students.

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CCSS.HSS.IC.B.3

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Example of a statistic: Average height of 30 students selected from a school.

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This is a statistic because it describes a characteristic of a sample of students.

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CCSS.6.SP.A.3

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What is the average math score of all graduates on the ACT an example of?

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Parameter, as it refers to the entire population of graduates.

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CCSS.HSS.ID.A.3

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What does it mean if a study reports the average salary of 500 employees?

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This is a statistic, as it summarizes a characteristic of a sample of employees.

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CCSS.6.SP.A.3

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In a study, if the average salary of all employees is calculated, what is it considered?

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Parameter, as it refers to the entire population of employees.

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CCSS.HSS.IC.B.3

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What is a population in the context of statistics?

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A population is the complete set of items or individuals that are of interest in a statistical study.

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CCSS.7.SP.A.1

CCSS.HSS.IC.A.1

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What is a sample in the context of statistics?

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A sample is a subset of the population selected for analysis.

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CCSS.7.SP.A.1

CCSS.HSS.IC.A.1