Correlation vs. Causation in ALG

This implies that one variable has a direct affect on the other variable.

• Correlation

• Causation

Which of the following statements shows a relationship that is correlated but not causal?

• The amount of rainfall received and level of water in the lake.

• The number of lights left on each day and the amount of the electric bill. 

• The increase of warm, sunny days and the number of ice cream vendors visible. 

• The number of hours worked and how much money is made.

Correlation or Causation: the number of bus stops increases, the number of car sales decreases?

• Correlation

• Causation

For the statement below about the graph shown, decide if it implies correlation (the two events are related) or causation (the two events are related and one event caused the other).

The rise in arcade revenue corresponds to the increase in computer science doctorates awarded in the U.S.

• Correlation

• Causation

• Application

• Explanation

• Interpretation

As x increases, y increases

• correlation coefficient

• causation

• positive correlation

• negative correlation

Beverly did a study this past spring using data she collected from a cafeteria. She recorded data weekly for ice cream sales and soda sales. Beverly found the line of best fit and the correlation coefficient, as shown in the diagram above. Given this information, which statement(s) can correctly be concluded?

• Soda causes people to buy ice cream.

• Ice cream causes people to buy soda.

• There is a positive correlation between ice cream and soda sales.

• There is a negative correlation between ice cream and soda sales.

• There is a no correlation between ice cream and soda sales.

Correlation or Causation: when it rains several inches, the water level of a lake increases?

• Correlation

• Causation

Correlation or Causation: when ice cream sales increase, incidents of sunburn increase?

• Correlation

• Causation

Remember!

• Got it!

• Gimme those negative points!

The situation has correlation. Does it represent causation or just correlation?

The number of cars traveling over a busy holiday weekend and the number of accidents reported.

• Correlation

• Causation