When students hear “AP Statistics,” they often expect a math class. They imagine a class filled with graphs, formulas, and time spent crunching numbers on a calculator. Parents often assume the same thing. While math is certainly part of AP Statistics, there are other skills that are equally important.
Comprehending the Question
AP Statistics questions require students to carefully read and interpret graphs, tables, studies, experimental designs, and summary statistics. Students need to identify important information, understand what a question is asking, and determine which statistical methods apply. And in order to do all of that successfully, they also need to have the discipline to not rush through problems.
A student can understand how to calculate a z-score or perform a hypothesis test and still struggle in class. Why? Because knowing how to do the math is only part of the answer. This is why a student who is strong at math but rushes through reading or writing can still have difficulty in AP Statistics.
Students Must Explain Their Thinking Clearly
Writing clearly is vital to the course. On the AP Statistics exam, students are often asked to explain their answers with clear justifications within the context of the question.
Just having the correct numerical answer isn’t enough. Students need to explain what that number means, justify their reasoning, and use correct statistical vocabulary. The foundations for this start during the first few weeks of the class, when everything seems “easy.” Often students know the difference between the mean of a data set and the median, and calculate the correct numbers, but they can’t actually convey it in their own words.
For parents, this can sometimes be surprising. A student may come home saying, “I got everything right, but I still lost points.”
How Parents Can Help
Often with math classes, if a student is struggling, we assume they need more practice. Don’t make that assumption with AP Statistics.
Ask your students if they’re taking time to carefully read each question. If they explain why they chose to use a formula or statistical method. Are they answering in complete sentences? Are they using the proper context? Do they know what the numbers they wrote down actually mean? These skills are the difference between knowing the material and being able to demonstrate that understanding on the AP exam.
