At Granada High School, AP Statistic students are working on their final projects. Students must design and conduct their own experiment using real data collected from Granada High students, giving them firsthand experience with the scientific process and statistical analysis
The project required students to create an original research question, gather data ethically, and analyze the results using concepts learned throughout the year. From studying sleep habits and academic performance to testing reaction time, music preference, or screen time effects, students are encouraged to explore topics that connect to everyday student life.
The project mirrors the work of professional statistics. Students must carefully identify variables, choose an appropriate sampling method, and avoid bias that could affect the results. Many groups use random assignment and control groups to strengthen the validity of their experiments. After collecting data from their peers, students apply statistical tests, create graphs, and interpret confidence intervals and significance levels to determine whether their findings are meaningful.
According to AP Statistics students, one of the most challenging parts of the project is collecting accurate data from real participants. Since the data comes directly from Granada students, researchers must communicate clearly, organize responses carefully, and account for unexpected results. Vanadhi Muthukumar (12) is working on this project currently.
“I would definitely say that the hardest part is getting data. So many people just don’t check their emails or respond to the survey, so we just had to randomly select more people than we needed to to make sure our sample size is big enough” (Muthukumar).
As the project concludes, students will present their findings and explain the statistical reasoning behind their conclusion. The assignment not only prepared students for the APExam, but it also gave them some experience in research that can be applied in future careers.
