Math Problem Statement
The scatterplot shows the grades for ten students on a recent test in relation to the time that each student spent studying. Based on these data, what would be the best estimate for the test score made by a student who studied for 35 minutes? Explain your method and reasoning.
Solution
To estimate the test score for a student who studied for 35 minutes based on the scatterplot, we can use the trend of the data, which suggests a positive linear relationship between study time and test scores.
Steps:
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Observation of the Scatterplot:
- The points show an upward trend, indicating that as study time increases, test scores also increase.
- Most points align closely with a straight line, suggesting that a linear regression model would be appropriate.
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Visual Interpolation:
- From the scatterplot, the scores for students who studied for 30 and 40 minutes appear to be approximately 85 and 95, respectively.
- Since 35 minutes is midway between 30 and 40, the test score is likely to be halfway between 85 and 95.
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Estimation:
- Halfway between 85 and 95 is .
- Therefore, the estimated test score for a student who studied for 35 minutes is 90.
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Method Reasoning:
- This estimation assumes a linear relationship between study time and test scores, which is supported by the scatterplot's pattern.
- Visual interpolation (averaging scores of nearby points) is a simple and reasonable method in the absence of exact regression calculations.
Would you like a more detailed analysis, such as finding an exact regression line or other methods? Here are some related questions for deeper exploration:
- How would adding a regression line help make more precise predictions?
- Could the relationship between study time and test scores ever plateau? Why or why not?
- What might explain any outliers in the scatterplot, and how would they affect predictions?
- If the study time exceeds 50 minutes, would the linear trend still apply?
- How can this analysis be used to encourage students to manage their study time?
Tip: Always use regression analysis for precise predictions when data trends are linear. Visual interpolation is effective for quick estimates.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Linear Interpolation
Data Analysis
Scatterplots
Formulas
Average formula: (value1 + value2) / 2
Theorems
Linear Relationship in Data
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 6-9