Algebra I
Activity:
You Are What You Eat
Posted on May 19, 2008
Topic: Data Analysis & Statistics
In this activity, students are introduced to modeling linear data through an investigation of comparing grams of fat and calories in fast food hamburgers. Students will use multiple representations to explore aspects of the linear equation that models the data.
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Activity Key Steps:
In this activity, students use linear regression to investigate the relationship between the number of calories and the number of grams of fat in fast food hamburgers. They will see a spreadsheet with the data as seen to the right. They study the data set and record any observations about patterns.
Students will create a scatter plot of the data using the Data & Statistics application. They select fat as the independent variable and cal as the dependent variable.
Students will select Add Movable Line from the Actions menu, then drag and rotate a line until an appropriate linear model of the data is obtained. One possible such line is shown to the left.
Students perform a linear regression by selecting Regression > Show Linear (mx+b). Students can then make a comparison of the resulting regression equation to their movable line.
Students will have two options when solving for y (cal). They can use the variable stat.RegEqn that is generated by the linear regression, or type in the regression equation and substitute 22 grams of fat in for x.
At the end of this activity, students will be able to represent and interpret data displayed in line graphs and scatter plots. They will also be able to find the line of best fit and its equations using two methods.