Modeling U.S. Census Housing Data with Sinusoidal Functions   

Christina Pei
Mathematics, Self-directed
2-3 Class Periods
Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus, Statistics
v1
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Overview

The 2-3 day lesson has three related components. The first activity teaches students how to create a spreadsheet that will allow them to calculate the least squared error of a sample data set. The second activity will be to ensure that students understand the effect of the constants in a sinusoidal function, Asin(Bx+C)+D, as well as how to incorporate a general trend line with the sinusoidal function. The third activity will involve downloading data from the Census Bureau website, fitting a curve to the data and analyzing the model by examining the sum of the squared errors.

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Underlying Pages

Standards

Computational Thinking in STEM
  •   Data Practices
    • Analyzing Data
    • Collecting Data
    • Creating Data
    • Manipulating Data
    • Visualizing Data
  •   Modeling and Simulation Practices
    • Assessing Computational Models
    • Using Computational Models to Find and Test Solutions
    • Using Computational Models to Understand a Concept
  •   Computational Problem Solving Practices
    • Developing Modular Computational Solutions
    • Troubleshooting and Debugging
    • Preparing Problems for Computational Solutions
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