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Standard deviation

Description

An animated guide explaining how the standard devition can give you a clearer picture of a sample than averages alone. An example involving zoo keepers and some very dangerous animals demonstrates that even with the same mean, median and mode, samples can differ greatly. How to calculate standard deviation using the defining formula is explained.

Classroom Ideas

Discuss with students the need to go beyond averages to give a picture of what a sample is like. Consider real life situations where knowing the standard deviation can be beneficial or is important.