“One of the Most Important Units” Teaches Eighth Graders about Linear Regression/Modeling

Eighth graders are currently engaged in a math unit about linear regression and modeling. “Of all the things we study in middle school math,” explains teacher Ali Frank, “this is quite possibly one of the most important units for our students.” This unit helps answer the ever-lingering question students ask: “When will I ever use this?” Linear regression and modeling is relevant in the future lives of our students, whether they go into STEM professions or humanities professions, as “linear regression is used again and again to predict outcomes between two related variables,” adds Ms. Frank. “For example, is there a causal relationship between airline ticket prices and holidays? Or, how does an increase in the temperature change the demand for ice cream? Linear modeling helps us predict whether variables are causally related or not, and allows us to predict potential outcomes in everyday life.”

 

To see the theory of linear regression applied to real-world scenarios, eighth graders will be taking on the Stock Market Equilibrium Challenge, where they will create a market for something they feel is a need in our world and will graph market supply and market demand. MORE PHOTOS