The median and the mode
Two more averages. The median is the middle figure and the mode is the most common one. Learn when each beats the mean.
Task 1The median: the middle figure4 questions
- Step 1: put the figures in order, smallest first
- Step 2: with an odd number of figures, the median is the one in the middle
- Step 3: with an even number, add the two middle figures and divide by 2
Worked example: 3, 9, 5, 4, 7. In order that is 3, 4, 5, 7, 9. The middle figure is 5.
Worked example: 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11. There are 6 figures, so take the two in the middle: 5 and 7. Half way between them is 6.
Task 2The mode: the most common figure2 questions
Task 3Which average to use4 questions