Statistics and Probability: From Research to the Classroom

This chapter presents the outcomes associated with the statistical reasoning strand of the Reframing Mathematical Futures (RMFII) project. Background is provided on the emergence of statistical reasoning and statistical literacy as constructs included in the middle school curriculum. A description of the key statistical ideas of Variation, Expectation, Distribution, and Inference follows, with a description of how these were used in the context of the project. Examples of questions and responses are provided that were used in the development of the Statistical Reasoning Learning Progression. Following a description of the eight zones of the learning progression, there is a discussion of the development of teaching advice for assisting students to progress through the zones. Finally, an example of the professional learning activities for statistical reasoning is given.