Mean — Social Studies definition
The total divided by the number of observations.
Where it is taught
- Work, Wages, Productivity & Economic Distribution — Measuring the Economy & Public Policy, Government, Civic Participation & Economics, Grade 12
Questions using mean
Problem 1
Answer and explanation
The high value of 60 raises the total to 100 and mean to 20, while the middle ordered value remains 10. The statistics summarize different aspects of distribution and do not establish anyone’s wealth.
Problem 2
Answer and explanation
Mean income is 20 and median income is 10. The values show unequal incomes, while wealth cannot be determined without assets and liabilities at a defined time. The claim confuses an average flow with equal individual stocks. More definitions and records would be needed to compare purchasing power or household circumstances.
Sum and divide by five.
Identify the middle ordered value.
Separate income from wealth.
Response criteria
- Explain the relevant institution or economic concept accurately; show correct calculations where needed.
- Connect supplied evidence and stated assumptions to an explained conclusion.
- Compare feasible options and their effects on different people without stereotypes.
- Identify a limitation, tradeoff, uncertainty, or condition that qualifies the conclusion.
Problem 3
Answer and explanation
The total is 50, so mean is ten and median five. Assets and debts are absent, so wealth cannot be calculated. Neither average is every person’s income or a complete measure of well-being.
Response criteria
- Explain the relevant institution or economic concept accurately; show correct calculations where needed.
- Connect supplied evidence and stated assumptions to an explained conclusion.
- Compare feasible options and their effects on different people without stereotypes.
- Identify a limitation, tradeoff, uncertainty, or condition that qualifies the conclusion.