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An observational survey reports the displayed positive correlation between study time and score. Does it prove a causal effect?

Read the idea, work independently, then explain what changed.

TOPIC 01

Statistical analysis of paired data: mixed review

A mixed assessment: identify the method, justify it and revise your reasoning.

What you will be able to explain

  • Connect the chapter skills without relying on the order of the exercises.

Try it. Leave your reasoning visible.

Use one hint at a time. A correction explains what changed, not just the final answer.

01 / Transfer#Your turn

An observational survey reports the displayed positive correlation between study time and score. Does it prove a causal effect?

r=0.1r=0.1
  • Both centered sums of squares must be positive; correlation measures linear association and does not establish causation.
Skills and prerequisite lessons

Working and explanation

BUILD THE REASONING

Hint 1
Use the paired-data summaries, preserving which observations belong together.
Hint 2
Consider confounding and study design.
Worked solution
  1. Use the paired-data summaries, preserving which observations belong together.

  2. Apply the stated relation and retain its conditions.

    Prior preparation may influence both variables.\text{Prior preparation may influence both variables.}
  3. The size of an observational correlation does not replace a causal design or justified control of confounding.

The requested relation or conclusion is shown below.

association does not establish causation\text{association does not establish causation}

Checks and common pitfalls: The size of an observational correlation does not replace a causal design or justified control of confounding.

Reasoning checklist · self / teacher assessment
  • State a valid definition or model and its assumptions.
  • Show the intermediate mathematical relations, not only the final claim.
  • Check exclusions, units or the interpretation of the result.

Think first. Reveal a hint when the class is ready.

Focus on one question

Teacher preparation and assessment

Question sequence

  • Ask students to name the relevant condition before calculating.

Board plan

  • Compare valid methods and annotate their conditions.

Anticipated thinking

  • A correct final value may still hide a missing assumption.

Assessment checklist

  • Check the method, conditions, reasoning and interpretation separately.

No sign-in. Work stays in this browser. Export before clearing browser data. Written reasoning is assessed with a checklist.

Curriculum and source notes ↗